The Florence Carnival 2026 returns on 31 January and 1 February, bringing theatrical elegance, masked ritual, and a weekend shaped by atmosphere rather than spectacle alone. Florence may be known for its museums and Renaissance architecture, but the carnival shifts the mood, adding music, performance, light, and a welcome sense of winter celebration that flows through the historic centre.
For travellers familiar with the museums and dining spots featured in our guides to Florence holidays and the best Florence restaurants, the carnival offers a new reason to visit during winter.
What to Expect from the Florence Carnival 2026 Weekend
This edition of the Carnevale di Firenze (Florence Carnival) revolves around two main pillars:
- an exclusive masked ball inside Palazzo Vecchio (Saturday, 31st January) and
- a public parade through the old town (Sunday, 1st February)
The contrast between these two experiences is part of the charm. One offers refinement and ceremony, the other brings colour and movement to Florence’s streets. Together they create a weekend that feels varied yet cohesive — unmistakably Florence Carnival in character.
Expect elegant masks, atmospheric lighting, musicians in the squares, and a crowd that leans into the energy of the celebration without overwhelming the city.
History and Traditions of the Carnival in Florence
The Carnival in Florence stretches back to the Renaissance, when the Medici hosted masked evenings that encouraged creativity and courtly indulgence before Lent. These gatherings combined performance, satire, and elaborate dress, transforming palaces into theatrical stages.
Although the tradition faded over the centuries, Florence has revived the carnival in a way that respects its origins. Today’s version favours elegance over excess and draws on the city’s artistic heritage rather than trying to replicate Venice’s more ornate style.
Inside the Grand Ball “Regine a Palazzo”: The Most Exclusive Experience of 2026
At the centre of the Florence Carnival 2026 is the Grand Ball “Regine a Palazzo”, held inside Palazzo Vecchio’s Salone dei Cinquecento. Few experiences match the feeling of stepping into this vast hall, surrounded by frescoes and golden detailing, to take part in a modern interpretation of a Renaissance masked gathering.
Dress Code
Masks are required. Black tie is suggested. Period costumes are welcome and often embraced by guests seeking a more theatrical entrance.
Saturday Evening: The Gala Experience
Guests arrive at 8:00 PM in the Cortile del Michelozzo, where masked performers set the tone for the evening. A private aperitivo follows from 8:00 to 9:00 PM, offering a relaxed start within the palace courtyard.
At 9:00 PM, the doors open to the Salone dei Cinquecento for a Michelin-starred dinner accompanied by Italian wines, bubbles, and coordinated live entertainment.
From 10:00 PM, the celebration moves to the Sala d’Arme for the After Party, complete with a Four Seasons open bar and a double DJ set that keeps the momentum going.
Ticket Options for 2026
- Diamond Prestige – €1,200 per person
Friday cocktail at a five-star Florentine hotel; Saturday gala dinner at centre tables; After Party access; VIP access to Sunday’s parade. - Diamond – €1,000 per person
Saturday gala dinner at centre tables; After Party access; VIP access to Sunday’s parade. - Gold – €700 per person
Saturday gala dinner with a second-row table; After Party access. - After Party – €200 single / €300 couple
Entry to the After Dinner Party with open bar and a double DJ set in the Sala d’Arme.
Each tier offers its own rhythm, from full-weekend immersion to a single night inside the palace, allowing visitors to choose how deeply they want to experience the event.
To purchase tickets, visit the official Carnevale di Firenze website: https://www.carnevaledifirenze.com/en/
Main Events and the Public Parade Across Florence
On 1st February, the carnival turns outward as the public parade winds through Florence’s centre. Masks are required for participants, creating a cohesive and colourful procession.
The parade begins in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, passes along Via Calzaiuoli and finishes in Piazza della Signoria. Expect live performers, dancers, musicians, and a welcoming atmosphere that fills the city without overwhelming its streets.
Those looking to explore between events may enjoy our feature on Florence gardens or our guide to the city’s museums.
Costumes, Masks, and Local Festivities
Costume plays a central role throughout the weekend. Florence’s style leans towards velvet cloaks, tailored suits, Renaissance-inspired gowns, and hand-painted masks. Several local ateliers offer rentals, hairstyling, and makeup — useful for visitors attending the gala.
During the weekend, smaller performances and food stalls appear throughout the centre, adding a relaxed layer of festivity that contrasts nicely with Saturday’s more formal tone.
Where to Experience the Best of the Florence Carnival
The heart of the celebrations can be found across:
- Palazzo Vecchio, the stage for the Grand Ball and After Party
- Piazza Santa Maria Novella, the parade’s starting point
- Via Calzaiuoli, one of the liveliest viewing areas
- Piazza della Signoria, the atmospheric parade finale
- Oltrarno, a calmer district ideal for breaks between festivities
Florence remains walkable, but comfortable footwear helps when navigating the city’s stone streets.
Practical Tips for Visiting During Carnival Weekend
A few small preparations go a long way:
- Arrive early if you want a strong view of the parade.
- Book restaurants ahead — especially the venues featured in our guide to Michelin dining.
- Bring warm layers for evening events.
- Choose central accommodation to move easily between celebrations and late-night returns.
Why the Florence Carnival 2026 Belongs on Your Calendar
The Florence Carnival 2026 offers a fresh way to experience the city. Between the grandeur of the Grand Ball, the distinctive atmosphere of Palazzo Vecchio, the energy of the parade, and the smaller celebrations that appear across the centre, the weekend feels immersive without being overwhelming.
For travellers planning to attend, Dimora Italia offers elegant apartments across Florence’s historic neighbourhoods, providing comfort and privacy within walking distance of both Palazzo Vecchio and the parade route. Find the perfect base for carnival weekend.
