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If you are looking for a unique and colorful experience in the heart of Lombardy, you can’t miss the Ambrosian Carnival in Milan! This extraordinary event, which takes place in a festive and engaging atmosphere, offers an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and Milanese culture. With dates that extend beyond the traditional Carnival, this festival celebrates joie de vivre with parades, extravagant costumes and lively street music. Discover the festive programme, the activities and the highlights of a Carnival that promises to fascinate and entertain visitors of all ages. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the colours, sounds and flavors that only Milan can offer!

Dates of the Ambrosian Carnival 2024

The Ambrosian Carnival 2024 promises to be full of colors and celebrations, with dates that will capture the attention of Milanese and tourists. This year, the Carnival will take place from February 17 until February 25, culminating on Shrove Tuesday, and then continuing with the typical celebrations until March 4. This period of joy and happiness offers an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in Milanese culture and traditions.

During these days, the streets of Milan will be transformed into a living stage, where masked parades and special events will liven up every corner of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend the historic “Ambrosian Carnival” parade, famous for its allegorical floats and spectacular performances by street artists.

Practically, the Ambrosian Carnival is a party for everyone: families, young people and couples. We recommend checking the program of events to best plan your visit. The events map will be available on the official Milanese tourism websites, so as not to miss anything of this unique experience.

Get ready to experience a Carnival that is not just a moment of celebration, but a real journey through the history and traditions of Milan, with a vibrant atmosphere that you will hardly forget.

The most spectacular fashion shows in Milan

The Ambrosian Carnival is an explosion of colours, sounds and traditions that hits the streets of Milan, offering unforgettable moments. The parades, the beating heart of this festivity, wind through the streets of the centre, transforming the city into a living stage.

Imagine finding yourself in Piazza Duomo, surrounded by a cheering crowd, while walkways of decorated allegorical floats parade in front of you, bringing with them a myriad of spectacular costumes. Every year, the parades see the participation of folk groups and dance schools that pay homage to Lombard traditions, mixing historical and modern elements. There is never a shortage of typical masks, such as the Burlamacco and the Ruzzen, undisputed symbols of the Ambrosian Carnival.

The dates to mark on your calendar for 2024 are February 10-13, with the peak of the parades taking place on Sunday. For those who want to make the most of the carnival atmosphere, it is advisable to arrive early to ensure a good place along the route.

Don’t forget to bring your camera with you: the images of confetti dancing in the air and smiling faces will remain in your heart, making the Ambrosian Carnival an experience worth telling. And remember, the magic of Milan during Carnival is an experience not to be missed!

Traditional and modern costumes to admire

The Ambrosian Carnival in Milan is not just a party in the streets, but also a triumph of colors and creativity through the costumes that animate the city. Here, tradition meets modernity, creating a unique atmosphere that captures the attention of residents and visitors.

Walking through the streets of the centre, you can admire traditional costumes inspired by historical and popular figures, such as the famous Rasputin and Doctor Balanzone, which evoke the charm of the past. These dresses, often made with rich fabrics and elaborate decorations, tell stories of a time when Carnival was a celebration of life and community.

But that’s not all: the Ambrosian Carnival is also a stage for modern costumes, the fruit of the imagination of local stylists and creatives. In these contemporary expressions, the art of disguise merges with current trends, giving life to extravagant and surprising creations that challenge conventions and make the eyes of adults and children shine.

For those who want to completely immerse themselves in this visual experience, it is advisable to participate in the parades on Saturday and Sunday, where the most beautiful costumes are rewarded. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you: every corner of Milan becomes a stage to immortalize during these holidays!

In this way, the Ambrosian Carnival is not just a celebration, but a real journey through Milanese history and culture.

Street music: engaging rhythms

The Ambrosian Carnival in Milan is not only a riot of colors and costumes, but it is also an explosion of street music that fills the squares and streets of the city with melodies that make the heart vibrate. During these holidays, artists of various talents perform in every corner, creating a festive and contagious atmosphere.

Imagine walking along Corso Buenos Aires, where the notes of a jazz band mix with the lively sounds of a group of percussionists. Or, let yourself be carried away by the rousing rhythms of folk music, which invite you to dance and join the party. The musical variety is surprising: from traditional Milanese songs to contemporary sounds, each artist brings their own unique style, making each performance an unforgettable experience.

For those looking for moments of pure magic, don’t miss the evening performances, where the music blends with the colored lights of the decorations. These events mainly take place in the main squares such as Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, perfect places to enjoy the show with friends and family.

Make sure you bring a camera to capture the best moments and be ready to get involved in the dance and joy that fills the air. Concluding a day of celebration with street music, the Ambrosian Carnival becomes an experience that will remain in the heart forever.

Milanese street food not to be missed

During the Ambrosian Carnival, Milan is not only a stage of colors and celebrations, but also a true paradise for street food lovers. The streets of the city come alive with irresistible scents, with stalls and food trucks offering local delicacies to savor while taking part in the celebrations.

Among the specialties not to be missed, we can mention the Carnival pancakes, fried sweets filled with cream or jam, which are a true institution. Other typical dishes include panzerotti, crunchy and stuffed with tomato and mozzarella, perfect for a tasty break between one parade and another.

And let’s not forget the casoncelli, ravioli typical of the Lombard tradition, often served with melted butter and sage, which represent an excellent choice for a quick but substantial lunch. In every corner of the city, you will also find homemade ice cream, a delight to enjoy while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

For a complete experience, I recommend you explore the markets and gastronomic fairs held during Carnival, where you can also taste other regional specialties such as Milan risotto and typical cured meats.

Be sure to take a trip to the Mercato del Duomo or the local fierucce, where every bite will tell you about the history and culture of Milan, making your Carnival not only festive, but also a journey into authentic flavors of Lombardy.

Family events: fun for everyone

The Ambrosian Carnival in Milan is not just a party for adults, but a real paradise for families! During the holidays, the city transforms into a stage for events designed specifically for the little ones, where fun is guaranteed for all ages.

Let’s start with the Children’s Carnival which is held in various squares in Milan. Here, little ones can participate in creative workshops, outdoor games and puppet shows that will capture their imagination. There is also no shortage of dedicated parades, where children can wear their favorite costumes and parade with pride, just like the adults.

Another unmissable event is the Carnival Village, located in some central areas of the city. This space is set up with rides, candy stands and live entertainment, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere. Parents can relax while their children discover the enchanted world of Carnival.

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Milan theaters that offer shows designed for the little ones, with stories that talk about magic and adventures. Be sure to check the schedule in advance, as reservations are recommended.

With so many options, the Ambrosiano Carnival in Milan promises to be an unforgettable experience for families, a moment of joy and sharing that will remain in the hearts of adults and children!

Secret tip: the best viewpoints

During the Ambrosian Carnival, Milan transforms into a living stage, and what could be better than observing this show from a privileged panoramic point? Here are some of the best places to enjoy the magic of Carnival from above.

  • Milan Cathedral: Going up to the terrace of the Duomo, you will be able to admire not only the incredible Gothic spiers, but also the breathtaking view of the parades and celebrations that unfold in the square below. Here, the atmosphere is filled with colors and sounds, while the allegorical floats make their way among the cheering crowds.

  • Torre Branca: Located in Sempione Park, this tower offers a unique panoramic view of the city. From here, you can see the festivities taking place in the surrounding gardens and alleys, with bright costumes dancing under the February sky.

  • Navigli: The canals of Milan offer a fascinating setting for Carnival. Choose a place with a terrace overlooking the Navigli, where you can enjoy an aperitif while watching the parade of colors reflected in the waters.

  • Piazza Gae Aulenti: With its modern skyline, this square is an excellent observation point for contemporary celebrations. Here, architecture blends with tradition, creating a fascinating contrast.

Remember to arrive early to ensure the best seat and prepare to experience an unforgettable Ambrosian Carnival!

Local traditions to discover during Carnival

The Ambrosian Carnival is not only an explosion of colors and sounds, but it is also a rich mosaic of local traditions that have their roots in Milanese culture. This event, which takes place in a festive and vibrant atmosphere, offers the opportunity to discover unique customs and fascinating rituals that make this celebration truly special.

One of the most famous traditions is the “Mixed Fried Ritual”, where families gather to enjoy delicious fried dishes, a symbol of abundance and conviviality. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor local specialties such as chiacchiere, light and crunchy desserts that accompany Carnival, perfect to enjoy while walking through the streets of the centre.

Another fascinating custom is the “Procession of San Biagio”, which is held on the Sunday after Shrove Tuesday. This religious celebration is a moment of reflection and community, where the Milanese come together to honor their patron saint, creating an atmosphere of spirituality and sharing.

Also, don’t forget to explore the Carnival markets, where local artisans offer typical products and unique creations. You will be able to find handmade masks, traditional costumes and souvenirs that tell the history of Milan.

Immersing yourself in local traditions during the Ambrosian Carnival means coming into contact with the authenticity of a city that celebrates life and culture with passion.

The fascinating history of the Ambrosian Carnival

The Ambrosian Carnival, one of the liveliest and most tradition-rich festivities in Milan, has its roots deep in history. Inspired by Sant’Ambrogio, patron saint of the city, the Carnival stands out for its peculiar start, which takes place on the Saturday following the traditional Carnival, making it unique compared to other celebrations.

The origins of this festival date back to the Middle Ages, when local populations gathered to celebrate and welcome spring. Over the centuries, the Ambrosian Carnival has been able to adapt, keeping its traditions alive but enriching itself with new elements. Today, the colorful parades and elaborate costumes are a tribute to Milanese creativity and culture.

During Carnival, Milan transforms into a stage of music, dance and entertainment. The streets are filled with masks and street artists who entertain passers-by, creating a contagious party atmosphere. Let’s not forget the importance of gastronomy, with specialties such as chiacchiere and tortellino, which delight visitors’ palates.

For those who want to completely immerse themselves in the atmosphere, it is advisable to visit the markets and local events held in various neighborhoods. Discovering the history of the Ambrosian Carnival is a journey that enriches not only the heart, but also the soul, making each participant part of a thousand-year-old tradition.

How to get to and move around Milan during Carnival

Milan, with its vibrant atmosphere, becomes an extraordinary stage during the Ambrosian Carnival. To fully enjoy this festival, it is essential to know how to reach the city and how to move within it.

Getting to Milan is simple thanks to a well-developed transport network. Malpensa airport is the main international airport, but Linate and Bergamo also serve the city. From there, you can take the Malpensa Express train or a bus, which will quickly take you to the heart of Milan. If you prefer to travel by train, the Central station is well connected to the main Italian cities.

Once in the city, the public transport system is an excellent ally. The subways, trams and buses cover every corner of Milan. For a more authentic experience, consider renting a bike or walking the historic streets, where you can admire the Carnival costumes and parades.

Don’t forget to plan ahead! During Carnival, public transport can be crowded, so it is advisable to purchase tickets online. Furthermore, the city center areas, such as the Duomo and Brera, are perfect for exploring on foot, allowing you to savor every moment of this extraordinary celebration.

Prepare to be overwhelmed by the magic of the Ambrosian Carnival!