The carnival of Ascoli is rich in tradition. It is an event which can find your protagonist and spectator at the same time. It is a colourful open air stage, set in an ideal position under the same lights of the central Piazza del Popolo, known as the living room of Italy. You can dress up and perform using the language of jokes. One of the winning formulas of this is the competition for masked groups. 

 

First established in 1958, it accepts candidates divided into categories based on a number, selected on the evening of Shrove Tuesday by a Jury that awards prizes for the most regional idea, the best costume and the most entertaining theme. The prize giving is a ceremony in Ascoli. There are also the so-called macchiette, individual masks that are self organised with their own costumes and sets and perform, often in the local dialect. 

 

 

The portray typical characters of the Ascoli festival, or they improvise, mocking well-known public figures, a sort of radio carnival that spreads the city’s stories and unrepeatable secrets. The celebrations officially begin on Fat Thursday, with the handing over of the keys by the major to the king of Carnival. Then on Thursday, Sunday and shrove Tuesday evenings, Piazza del popolo decorated for the occation with huge fin de siecle chandeliers, becomes a gigantic ballroom, prepared to welcome dancing. colourful illuminations are set up all over the old town, but there are many places hosting parties and themed balls. At Carnival you can try the famous local specialities, you can eat very good sweet like frappe ravioli ( a special pasta filled with chestnuts or cream) and Castagnole all fried sweets and those who love savoury dishes can choose ravioli di gallina incaciati made with hen meat pecorino and Parmesan cheese. People have fun with friends, mask and throw confetti everywhere .