Viareggio Carnival , Italy

Viareggio Carnival happens to be the most famous carnival event in Italy, and one of the most important of Europe. Born in 1873 as a folk event, Viareggio Carnival, at present can be considered as a dynamic and lively show, which attracts the international media and large crowds of all ages.

Viareggio Carnival is famous worldwide for its incredible floats, which satirize public and political figures. Huge Trojan horse-like puppets parade around the town, competing for the finest float award. The huge paper maché floats and puppets parade along the famous 'viali a mare', down the seaside promenades, offering a wide programme of entertainment and fun for children and adults.

On set days throughout the carnival period each float carries about 200 people in costume as well as a dozen inside to manoeuvre the weights, counter-weights and levers that prevent the puppet from toppling over. Each parade finishes with gastronomic events and a massive municipal fireworks display. The festival further includes a large number of shows and cultural events such as fun musical comedies in vernacular, a series of carnival menus available in the restaurants of the area and lot more fun things.