Celebrations for the Giovedì Grasso, or Fat Thursday, are set to kick off the Carnival 2025 festivities on February 27, marking the start of one of Italy's most colorful and exuberant traditions. From the vibrant streets of Sicily to the grand spectacles of Venice, festivities promise to engage people of all ages with parades, music, and culinary delights.
The Giovedì Grasso serves as the prelude to Carnival’s peak, often associated with the consumption of rich foods before Lent. Historical roots trace back to ancient Roman Saturnalian festivals where social norms were upended, and feasting was abound. During this period, Italians prepare to indulge before the penitential season begins with Ash Wednesday on March 5, 2025.
Sicily particularly shines during this period, with towns and cities hosting unique celebrations. For example, Misterbianco plans to host the traditional parade titled “A spasso con il Re Burlone,” which will include local schoolchildren and culminate with the well-loved “maccheronata” feast organized by the “Esco pazzo” association. From 16:00 to 22:00, street performers and circus artists will entertain crowds, setting the stage for lively interactions among locals and visitors alike.
Similarly, the city of Acireale will take part with engaging activities such as the miniature float exhibition at the Teatro Maugeri. Visitors can also partake in the Aci Comics event featuring cosplay, comics, and popular culture activities at Piazza Duomo starting at 15:00. With traditional games scheduled for Piazza Garibaldi, the emphasis will be on bringing communities together through the art of fun.
Taormina will not be left behind, as it offers its own share of carnival cheer. Scheduled activities include games, costumes, and inflatable amusement rides from 15:00 to 18:00 at Piazza Falcone and Borsellino Trappitello, with the highlight being the grand mask parade. Giarre invites revelers to join the “Chocolate Carnival,” beginning at 09:00 with rides and spectacular mask displays anticipated for the afternoon.
Beyond regional celebrations, the Giovedì Grasso heralds broader festivities across Italy. The Grand Carnival of Venice is renowned for its historic charm and elegance. Events during this time feature street performances and artisan demonstrations centered around the famed Venetian masks. Evening events include the spectacular Arsenale Water Show, combining operatic storytelling with vibrant visuals—a quintessential Venetian experience.
Ivrea’s Carnival also creates excitement with its specific kid-friendly events, including the light-hearted foam ball games. Along with local traditions, the iconic battle of oranges is anticipated to draw significant attention as the celebration leads up to Martedì Grasso.
Meanwhile, the Carnival of Viareggio is celebrated for its majestic floats and offers parades with elaborate costumes. On Giovedì Grasso, the illuminative night parade at 18:00 is expected to captivate visitors, blending music and artistic performances to dazzle onlookers. The participation levels appear to soar this year, echoed by growing advance ticket sales as the festive vibe captures the interest of many, with hotel bookings reflecting this increased enthusiasm.
Culinary delights are also at the heart of the Carnival. The traditions of Giovedì Grasso are complemented by regional specialties such as chiacchiere (fritters dusted with powdered sugar) and savory dishes like lasagne di Carnevale, which showcase the diverse flavors of Italy. Each region brings its flair to the table, making food sampling part of the festivities.
Back to Modena, the family Pavironica takes center stage during carnival celebrations. The beloved local masks, led by the character Sandrone, will escort attendees through the historical center, resting at key city landmarks. With satirical performances and vibrant spectacles, participants eagerly await Sandrone’s traditional speech addressing relevant social themes.
This year’s Giovedì Grasso finds Modena organizing engaging parades integrating various traditional masks from across Italy, fostering cultural interchanges. The continuous participation of locals reinforces the pride and love for their traditions, making it more than just entertainment, but rather, part of the local heritage.
Indeed, the 2025 Giovedì Grasso Carnival promises to be packed with exhilarating events, vibrant traditions, culinary experiences, and more, drawing thousands to engage with this cherished Italian festival. Looking forward, it's evident the spirit of community and cultural celebration lives on through these joyous events, embodying the essence of the Italian Carnival.