It is not known to everyone, but Molise also boasts a spectacular celebration at the most festive time of the year. It is the Carnival of Larino, known for its majestic floats.
The origins of the Larino Carnival are rooted in popular traditions, such as the custom of dressing up as “pacchianella” and singing for gifts. The first parade dates back to 1955, with a simple cart and rented costumes. In the following years, the floats were built with salvaged materials until 1975, when four young Larinese people started the first real floats and formed an organizing committee.
Today, the parade is a must-see event, involving groups of young people who, with passion and skill, work for months to create works of art on wheels. The floats are made mainly using two techniques. The first involves a wire mesh structure, covered with layers of newspaper and glue, followed by a finish of brown paper and white paint before final painting. The second technique uses clay models from which plaster molds are made, in which papier-mâché is layered.
The Larino Carnival is not just a parade of floats, but an experience that combines tradition, creativity and celebration. The event, curated by the Larinella Association, and divided into several days, offers a rich program of shows and entertainment, giving visitors a lively and engaging atmosphere. A perfect opportunity to discover one of the hidden gems of Molisian folklore.