A unique event, recognised as an Italian event of international importance, a ‘dream’ that manifests itself every year, bringing history and myth, tradition and spectacle, emotions and great ideals to the streets and squares of the city.
The spirit of the Historic Carnival of Ivrea stems from ancient rituals and lives in the memory of a legendary medieval episode of liberation from tyranny: the ‘baron’ who starved the city was killed by a miller's daughter, who did not want to submit to the jus primæ noctis and ignited the popular uprising. The heroine of the festivity is therefore the ‘ Mugnaia “ next to the figure of the Generale, who since the early 19th century has been in charge of ensuring the smooth running of the event together with his Stato Maggiore Napoleonico, composed of gallant Officers on horseback and graceful ”Vivandiere’.
The highlights of the Historic Carnival of Ivrea in 2026 are:
6 January: Opening of the Historic Carnival of Ivrea
Epiphany officially marks the beginning of the Historic Carnival with a programme full of medieval ceremonies, music and solemnity. The day starts at 9:00 am with the first march of the Pipes and Drums, which will bring the sounds of Carnival to the streets of the historic centre. At 12:00 noon, in the entrance hall of the Town Hall, one of the most eagerly awaited moments takes place, as the General 2026 is officially invested.
1st February - Third Last Sunday of Carnival
The ‘Fagiolate’, the ‘Prise du Drapeau’ and the ‘Raising of the Abbà’. All day long, in piazza Ottinetti the Orange Village, with The Flavours of Carnival, with food stands until 5 pm.
8th February - Penultimate Sunday of Carnival
The Fagiolate, the Parade of the Casting Carts and the Raising of the Abbà. On this day, you will be able to enjoy a unique moment, the parade and subsequent presentation of the Jetty Carts. The chariots and horses will show themselves in all their splendour, before descending into the spectacular Battle of the Oranges.
12th February - Maundy Thursday
The Calzata del Berretto Frigio (kicking of the Phrygian cap), the ascent of the Generale on horseback and the parade of the Historical Procession, accompanied by the ever-present Pifferi e Tamburi (Pipes and Drums). Plus: children's parties in the square and grand finale from 9 p.m. with bands and parades around town.
The days of the Historic Carnival
From 14 to 17 February, the climax of the event will be celebrated with a full calendar every day. From the presentation of the Vezzosa Mugnaia on Saturday evening, with the Orange Parade and Historical Procession, followed by the always popular fireworks display, to the three-day Battle of the Oranges. And more: parade of the Historical Procession and guest groups, fagiolata del Castellazzo, Zappate, Scarli and much more...
15 FEBRUARY 2026: ENTRANCE TO THE CITY OF IVREA ON CARNIVAL SUNDAY
If you intend to participate in Carnival Sunday on 15 February, entrance to the city costs €15 + advance booking fees for online purchases, or you can pay at the ticket office on the day of the event. Admission is free for children under 12, residents of the City of Ivrea, disabled persons, Aranceri with a valid registration patch for the current year, and participants in the historical parade.
Tickets can be purchased online on tickeOne website.
Groups: 1 free ticket for every 20 purchased. Info and purchases for groups: [email protected]