Events
Diano Marina Carnival: tradition, floats and events not to be missed
March 19, 2025
Carnival in Diano Marina is much more than just an event: it is an explosion of colors, music and smiles that captivates young and old every year. In our beautiful village located on the Riviera dei Fiori, the party is experienced in the streets, with floats parading majestically, masked groups ready to go wild, and an atmosphere that makes even the most timid want to dance.
Organized by the historic Famïa Dianese, Carnival is a tradition that brings with it all the passion and energy of this community. It is the perfect time to experience Liguria in a different way, discover Diano Marina in a more lively light, and perhaps treat yourself to a weekend of sea, party and good food.
To best experience the atmosphere of the Diano Marina Carnival, book one of our vacation apartments: the perfect solution to enjoy relaxation, traditions and fun just a stone's throw from the party!
Curious to know what's in store for you? Diano Marina Carnival has lots of surprises in store for you!
The history of the Dianese Carnival
The Diano Marina Carnival has its roots in Ligurian folk tradition, but with a very special twist that makes it unique. Although the first traces of carnival celebrations in the town date back to the early 20th century, it was in 1969 that the Dianese Carnival as we know it today officially came to life.
In that year, a group of enthusiasts and citizens decided to breathe new life into the festival, combining tradition and innovation, thus giving rise to the Dianese Famïa. This group of volunteers, inspired by the oldest carnivals in Liguria, began organizing parades of floats, masquerade parades and popular events, with the intention of reviving a festival that had been lost over the years.
The origins and role of the Famïa Dianese
The Famïa Dianese has always played a central role in the organization of Carnival, and its impact goes far beyond the logistical aspect. This group of citizens has become the cultural engine of the event, and they make sure that each year the Carnival retains its traditional roots, while at the same time renewing itself with new ideas.
In fact, members of the Famïa Dianese are the protagonists in the design and construction of the floats, which are often handmade using techniques that have been handed down for generations. Each float is a small work of art that reflects themes related to popular culture, politics or even current issues, thus managing to strike emotional chords and make people think through entertainment as well.
In addition, the Dianese Famïa plays a key role in keeping the Carnival accessible and participatory. It is not just an event for residents, but involves tourists and the curious, who are attracted by the authenticity of the event, the beauty of the floats and the atmosphere in the streets of Diano Marina.
An iconic event in Diano Marina
The Diano Marina Carnival is no longer just a local festival: it has become one of the top events of the entire Riviera dei Fiori and the Gulf of Diano itself. The beauty of the parades and the variety of events have contributed to the growing fame of this festival.
Over the years, the city has seen its streets transformed into veritable outdoor stages, with a series of side events ranging from musical performances to street artists' shows and the active involvement of local schools and associations. Carnival has been able to adapt to change, but always maintaining its strong ties to the community and traditions of the area.
Today, the Dianese Carnival is an event that represents not only a time of entertainment, but also a time of identity for the citizens of Diano Marina, who proudly participate in a celebration that has now become a true symbolic tradition of the town.
When and where does the carnival take place?
The Diano Marina Carnival takes place each year at a specific time, which varies slightly depending on the date of Easter. Generally, the celebrations begin the weekend before Shrove Tuesday, when parades of floats and other events come to life, although the town begins to experience the carnival atmosphere a few days earlier, with events and preparations involving the entire community.
The locations of the event
The Diano Marina Carnival takes place in the town center, a pedestrian area that becomes the perfect stage for the floats and all the side activities. The waterfront and main streets come alive with color and sound, while the historic center is transformed into one big party, where people mingle with street performers and masked groups.
The parade of floats, one of the most anticipated events, travels through the streets of downtown, passing in front of Martiri della Libertà Square. This area becomes a real epicenter of the event, with the stalls, confetti and music creating a beautiful festive atmosphere.
In addition, other locations worth visiting during Carnival are the public park where family and children's events take place, and some of the theaters and outdoor spaces where local bands and street performers perform.
The Carnival of Diano 2025
The parades of the floats
The float parades are the heart of the Diano Marina Carnival and the event everyone eagerly awaits. Each year, the town center is transformed into a vibrant stage, with huge floats lining the main streets, accompanied by marching bands, masquerade groups and street performers.
These floats are not mere decorations-they are true works of art handcrafted by the Famïa Dianese, who devote months to their design and construction. The themes of the floats range from political satire, local stories and celebrations of popular culture, always with a touch of creativity that amazes every year. Each float is a combination of vibrant colors, elaborate details, and great attention to design, making them the focal point of the event.
The parades take place on Saturday and Mardi Gras, drawing thousands of people along the streets each year. Crowds mingle with the sound of marching bands and the energy of masked groups, creating a festive atmosphere that engages everyone.
Events and activities for all ages
The Diano Marina Carnival is an event designed to involve everyone, from toddlers to adults. Every year, the streets of Diano Marina come alive with games, music and performances that transform the entire town into a living stage.
Diano Marina Carnival 2025
Children's Carnival: games, music and fun
The Children's Carnival is one of the most anticipated events for families. During this event, the center of Diano Marina is filled with color, laughter and children dressed in cheerful and imaginative costumes. There are many activities designed for the little ones: from group games to magic shows, from child makeup to musical entertainment. The city is transformed into an outdoor playground where children can have fun safely and never get bored.
Special attention is given to creating spaces where young children can romp around in movement games, participate in creative workshops or attend shows designed especially for them.
Concerts, shows and street performers for adults and families
Of course, adults can also enjoy a rich program of events. During the festival days, the city hosts numerous live concerts, with local bands and musical groups playing on stages set up in the main squares.
In addition, for those who love street art, there is no shortage of performances by artists who, including acrobatics, juggling and comic performances, enliven the streets and squares of Diano Marina.
Carnival and traditions of the Riviera of Flowers
Diano Marina Carnival is a celebration that fits perfectly into the heart of the traditions of the Riviera dei Fiori. This area of Liguria, famous for its natural beauty and rich cultural history, has a special connection with Carnival, which has always been a time of celebration, conviviality and, above all, unity among people.
For centuries, the Riviera of Flowers has witnessed folk traditions mingling together, from typical cuisine to street parties, from dances to songs. The Diano Marina Carnival is no exception and manages to perfectly combine these elements with modern creativity. The floats, to give an example, not only tell funny and ironic stories, but are also an opportunity to remember and celebrate historical and cultural traditions of Liguria.
What's more, as in many other Ligurian localities, Carnival is the perfect opportunity to show off costumes and masks that tell of myths, legends and characters typical of local culture. This connection to the past makes the event even more fascinating, because while having fun, you also have the opportunity to rediscover local history and identity.
What to do in Diano Marina during Carnival
Besides participating in the colorful parades and events of Carnival, what to do in Diano Marina? The town offers many other opportunities to fully enjoy the festive weekend. If you're in town during Carnival, you can take advantage of its ideal location to explore a bit of the surrounding area as well and discover some hidden corners.
Weather permitting, a walk along the waterfront is ideal for breathing in the fresh sea air and enjoying the Ligurian landscape. Diano Marina is famous for its beaches, so even out of season, a walk on the sand is always a good idea.
But it is not only the sea that makes the city special: the historic center is full of small stores, cozy cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy Ligurian cuisine. Take a break between events to savor typical local delicacies.
If you have a little more time, you can take advantage of the proximity to the surrounding hills for a walk or hike. The trails from the town offer really beautiful panoramic views.
Practical tips for participating in the Diano Marina Carnival
Attending the Diano Marina Carnival is a unique experience, but as with any big event, a few practical tips don't hurt to enjoy it to the fullest. Here's everything you need to know to arrive and move around comfortably during the festival.
How to get there and where to park
Diano Marina is easily accessible by car, thanks to its strategic location along State Road 1 (SS1), which connects the Riviera dei Fiori with other cities in Liguria. If you are coming from Genoa or Savona, just follow the coast, enjoying the view of the sea along the way. If you are coming from other regions, you can take the A10 highway and exit at the Imperia Est tollbooth. From there, Diano Marina is only a few minutes away by car.
Once you arrive in the city, parking may be a major concern during Carnival, when the streets fill with visitors. We recommend arriving a little early to find a spot in one of the public parking lots located near the center. Martyrs of Liberty Square is one of the main landmarks, so you can look for parking in the surrounding areas.
Other useful information
During Carnival, the center of Diano Marina becomes a pedestrian zone, so you are advised to wear comfortable shoes to walk between parades and events. The weather in Liguria during this time can be changeable, so bring a coat or waterproof jacket with you in case there is sudden rain.
If you are a lover of photography, get your camera ready! The parades and floats are quite a spectacle, so make sure you have enough space on your memory and battery to capture every moment. Then beware that some events may require you to buy tickets, so find out about times and prices in advance so you don't miss anything.
In general, Diano Marina is a welcoming and well-equipped town for tourists, so you will have no difficulty finding restaurants, bars, and places to stop and eat or relax during these festive days.
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