Tiburtino Carnival – Tivoli

CANCELED IN 2023

CANCELED IN 2023

The Tiburtino Carnival, a mix of history, traditions and fun, takes place in Tivoli

The Tiburtino Carnival’s origins can be traced back to the end of the 16th century, when Cardinal Ippolito d’Este built the magnificent Villa d’Este and moved there. Back then, Tivoli was a small village of priests and peasants living a simple and patriarchal life – or at least it was before the Cardinal arrived, since he prompted noblemen to join him in Tivoli for the Carnival festivities.

Traditionally, the Tiburtino Carnival festivities began the night before St. Anthony’s Day (January 17), when young olive pickers roamed the streets of Tivoli playing tambourines and caccavelle. The town’s residents joined in the procession in celebration of the start of the Carnival, and they all attended Mass at the Church of S. Antonio Abate. After Mass, the church guardians offered doughnuts and sweets to all participants, and the blessing of animals took place.

Nowadays, float parades, markets, concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, masked balls and parties for children animate Tivoli’s old town during the Carnival.

We recommend to always check on the facebook page for any changes of dates or program.

See other carnival events in Italy>>>

(photos: event’s official Facebook page)