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Overview
The long-awaited Cento Carnival of Europe is back with a new edition, the only one in the world twinned with the famous Carnival of Rio de Janeiro.
In Cento, preparations are underway for a great month-long celebration, which will take place on 1, 8, 15, and 22 February, and on 1 March 2026. It will see the papier-mâché Giants compete for the title of best float of 2026 along the picturesque straight stretch of Corso Guercino.
One of Emilia-Romagna's 15 historical carnivals, the Carnival of Cento dates back to the 17th century thanks to frescoes by the famous Cento painter Gian Francesco Barbieri, known as "Il Guercino".
The festival retained its connotation as a typical local event until the late 1980s, when it became an international event.
The Cento Carnival is not just a parade of floats; it’s a month-long celebration where folklore, traditions, sports, art, culture, food, and entertainment all come together in a joyful atmosphere. Multiple side events are planned to delight locals and tourists alike. Cento's historic centre will come alive with cultural, literary, sporting, culinary, musical, and folkloric events. As every year, the stage in Piazza Guercino will host great celebrity guests, and beautiful Brazilian dancers will swing to the beat of joyful samba rhythms.
A tradition that will continue in the spirit of celebration and entertainment until the announcement of the winning float, closing with the customary burning of the Rocca, the spectacular fireworks display that marks the end of the event each year.
The five parades will start at 2.00 pm and will see the papier-mâché Giants travel the entire kilometre of the Corso Guercino straight in both directions.
44042 Cento, Province of Ferrara, Italy
