Among the most eagerly awaited winter events of the year in Francavilla al Mare is undoubtedly Il Carnevale d’Abruzzo. The town hosts this historic event, first held in 1956, which represents a cultural and identity landmark for the entire area.
The event takes place on the two Sundays before Carnival and on Shrove Tuesday, attracting thousands of spectators with its parades. These feature gigantic allegorical floats created by skilled local papier-mâché masters, who each year address themes of politics, current affairs, music and culture with irony, accompanied by marching bands, masked groups and dance troupes.
The parades take place in the heart of the town, winding their way between Viale Nettuno and Piazza Sirena. At the opening of the event, the mayor symbolically hands over the keys of the town to Re Patanello, the official mask of Francavilla al Mare, inspired by a charismatic cobbler who lived between the 19th and 20th centuries and was known for his good humour, his love of wine and his pranks, marking the start of the festivities.
The days of celebration end with the award for the most beautiful float and an impressive fireworks display lighting up Pontile del Mare.
