In Carnival, every trick counts!
Carnival is a festival full of traditions and merriment that is celebrated in many parts of the world, but in Italy, and particularly in the region of Emilia-Romagna, it takes on a deep and unique meaning. This celebration, which culminates on Shrove Tuesday, is characterized by colorful parades, imaginative costumes, infectious music and, of course, the irresistible taste of our region’s culinary specialties. An occasion of fun and games under the banner of goliardia and … jokes! Oh yes, because as the saying goes, “at Carnival every joke counts”! But what is the origin of this association of carnival with pranks and cute mischief?
The saying “A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale” is a popular Italian expression that emphasizes the joyful, festive and often playful atmosphere that characterizes the Carnival period. The phrase suggests that during this holiday one can indulge in pranks, games and out-of-the-ordinary behavior without suffering serious consequences or harsh judgments.
The origin of this expression is related to the very nature of Carnival, which represents a period of celebration and merriment that precedes Lent. Lent is a period of fasting and penance in the Christian tradition, during which abstinence from certain pleasures and indulgences is practiced. Carnival, therefore, becomes an opportunity to indulge in playful and festive behavior before entering the more reflective and penitential period of Lent.
The phrase also reflects the idea of a temporary suspension of conventional social rules during Carnival, allowing everyone to have fun without excessive restrictions. The atmosphere of joking and fun is emphasized, encouraging people to take an active part in the celebration, wear costumes, participate in parades and entertainment, and generally enjoy the joyful atmosphere of the festival.
To conclude then, the saying “A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale” embodies the playful and liberating spirit of Carnival, inviting people to embrace the joy and lightheartedness characteristic of this traditional Italian holiday. And do you already have some pranks in mind? We suggest 7 carnival parties where you can have fun under the banner of the most playful celebration of the year!
7 Carnival Festivals in Emilia-Romagna
Carnival of Cento
Feb. 4-11-18-25
At last the famous Carnival of Cento is back, the only one twinned with the famous Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, which in addition to the inevitable parade of floats offers various food and wine, cultural, musical, literary and sports initiatives.
Find out all the details:
www.carnevalecento.com
The Carnival on the Water of Comacchio
Feb. 4-11
A unique carnival, which sees the Borgo di Comacchio transformed into a magical and enchanted place, where boats are transformed into allegorical boats that parade along the canals of the historic center, creating a decidedly evocative setting.
An absolutely unmissable event, where there is also no shortage of shows, music, dancing and various types of entertainment, involving the many visitors from all over Italy.
Find out all the details:
www.carnevalecomacchio.it
The Imola Carnival of Fantasy Vehicles
February 11
Among the most fun carnival events in Emilia-Romagna, the Carnival of Fantavehicles attracts visitors from all over Italy. On this occasion, there is a parade of extravagant vehicles decorated with great originality and imagination, according to the principles ofeco-sustainability, which the Carnival has been inspired by for years. Children and teens from 0 to 14 years old will also be able to decorate their own bicycles, unleashing their creativity and ingenuity by using reclaimed materials.
Find out all the details:
www.comune.imola.bo.it/argomenti/cultura/fantaveicoli
The Carnival of San Giovanni di Persiceto
Feb. 4-11-18
It is a historic carnival event that has been repeated for nearly 150 years and culminates with the Pin show and the parade of floats. The opening of the Carnival is by King Bertoldo, the Persicetan mask, who will read a dialect composition, the Speech of the Crown, in People’s Square, center of the town.
The Persicetan Carnival is distinguished by a unique feature: the Spillo. In dialect it is said
Spéll
which, in Bolognese dialect, means a transfiguration, a change of figure. It is said that something “l’ha fat spéll” when, although it is in front of our eyes, suddenly we no longer see it. The spectacle of the Spéll corresponds to the moment when the allegorical float is transformed into something else and reveals to the jury and the audience the meaning of that allegory, showing things hidden within it or taking forms that differentiate it from the original one. The float has 15 minutes to tell its story, through actors, music, figures and movements.
Find out all the details:
carnivalpersiceto.it
Carnival in Sant'Arcangelo
February 11
Carnival returns to the beautiful town of Sant’Arcangelo with a parade of floats, toy trains, masked parades, dance schools and more to provide moments of merriment and fun.
Find out all the details:
www.comune.santarcangelo.rn.it
The Estense Carnival of Ferrara
Feb. 10-11
In the magnificent setting of the Este city of Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a very special carnival event with a Renaissance flavor is staged. Ladies, nobles and knights parade through the streets of the historic center, bringing back to life the evocative atmosphere of bygone eras, enlivened by dancing, banquets and performances.
Find out all the details:
www.ferrarainfo.com
Bobbio Carnival
Feb. 11-18
The Borgo di Bobbio (PC) is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and what better occasion than Carnival to visit it? Experience this unique festival that combines tradition and merriment. Its picturesque medieval streets become an atmospheric stage come alive with colorful parades, original masks and engaging performances. Enjoy thehistoric and magicalatmosphere and take the opportunity to savor local gastronomic specialties as well. Don’t miss the evening festivals and dances, taking part in an unforgettable celebration in a magical and evocative atmosphere.
Find out all the details:
https://www.facebook.com/proloco.bobbio
