Fano Carnival 2026

A Magical Carnival: History, Parades, and Flying Sweets

Welcome to the Carnival of Fano – Italy’s oldest and one of its most unique celebrations. Dating back to 1347, this historic event is a vibrant mix of tradition, satire, music, and sweets, drawing thousands of visitors every year into a dreamlike atmosphere.

Step into a world where giant papier-mâché floats glide through the streets, confetti fills the air, and chocolates rain down from the sky during the famous Getto – a spectacular and joyful ritual inspired by ancient farming traditions.

Main Events 

• January 25 – Children’s Carnival (Free entry)
  A fun-filled day dedicated to kids, with games, creative workshops, entertainment, and a colorful costume parade.
• February 1, 8, 15 – Grand Float Parades & the Famous “Getto”
  Don’t miss the iconic launch of more than 18 tons of candies and chocolates thrown from the floats. Music, confetti, and magic turn the city into a carnival wonderland

5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Fano Carnival

Discover the quirky, fascinating, and delicious traditions that make this Carnival truly unforgettable.

Everyone Equal for a Day

A celebration born to break down social barriers
The Carnival of Fano began as a way to bring people together, no matter their background. Dating back to 1347, and shaped under the Malatesta family in the 15th century, it became a celebration where everyone – noble or servant – could laugh, dress up, and poke fun at authority. A true moment of freedom and unity for the whole community.

Why We Burn the “Pupo”

Letting go of the past with fire and laughter
At the end of the Carnival, a giant papier-mâché figure called the Pupo is burned in a powerful symbolic ritual. Designed as a satire of the past year, the Pupo represents our mistakes and burdens. By burning it, the community says goodbye to the old and welcomes the new – purified and ready to start fresh.

Musica Arabita – The Wild Sound of Fano

Rebellious rhythms and homemade instruments
Since 1923, Fano’s Carnival has had its own unofficial soundtrack: Musica Arabita (literally “angry music”). This eccentric street band plays with pots, umbrellas, coffee makers, and bottles, blending humor and creativity into joyful chaos. A true expression of local spirit and irreverent fun.

The “Getto” – A Shower of Sweets

The Carnival’s sweetest and most iconic tradition
During the parades, over 18,000 kilos of sweets and chocolates are thrown into the crowd from the floats. It’s more than a sugar rush – it’s a ritual of abundance. Inspired by ancient farmers who scattered seeds for good fortune, the Getto is a joyful wish for happiness and prosperity for all.

Papier-Mâché: Art That Moves

The Carnival’s spectacular floats are crafted entirely in papier-mâché, a simple mix of paper, glue, and water. Local artists spend months building these moving masterpieces – colorful, satirical, and larger-than-life creations that turn the streets of Fano into an open-air art gallery.

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