Carnival is celebrated across many countries in Europe and around the world, and each place has its own special traditions. In San Marino, as in neighbouring Italy, Carnival involves children and adults dressing up in fantastic costumes - anything from animals and superheroes to historical figures and fairy tale characters. Masks are a big part of the tradition.
Parades are the centrepiece of Carnival in San Marino. Floats decorated with colourful paper flowers and giant papier-mâché figures roll through the streets, accompanied by marching bands and crowds of revellers. Confetti rains down everywhere, coating the cobblestones in bright colours.
For children, Carnival is often the highlight of the winter calendar. Schools and community groups create costumes together, and there are special children's events, games, and sweet treats. The whole spirit of Carnival is about playfulness, creativity, and the joy of dressing up as someone completely different for a day.