Carnival of Bergamo - Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima | Bergamo / ITALY

Carnival of Bergamo - Carnevale di Bergamo - Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima | Bergamo / ITALY - 30/03/2025

The Carnival of Bergamo, specifically the Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima (Mid-Lent Parade), is a cherished traditional festival mid-way through Lent, featuring colorful floats, lively masks (like iconic Arlecchino and Brighella), music, and folklore, offering a joyful break from Lent's austerity with parades and culminating in the symbolic burning of a puppet representing evil, uniting the city in tradition and lightheartedness.

What it is:

A Mid-Lent Celebration: Unlike typical carnivals held before Lent, this parade happens during the Lenten period (around the fourth Sunday of Lent), providing a moment of respite and joy.
A Spectacle of Floats & Masks: The city center fills with allegorical floats, costumed figures, and folk groups, creating a vibrant atmosphere with music and dancing.
Rooted in Tradition: Promoted by the Ducato di Piazza Pontida, it's a centuries-old event that has become a cornerstone of Bergamasque identity, blending history, culture, and community spirit.
The Rasgamènt (Burning of the Old Woman): A central ritual where a puppet, representing the "old woman" or evil/flaws of the past year, is burned, often after being judged in a contest (La Ègia piö bèla).
Traditional Masks: It's the birthplace of Harlequin (Arlecchino) and Brighella, two famous Italian carnival figures, whose presence adds to the historical significance.
Joyful Interruption: Historically, it broke the strictness of Lent, offering a festive release before Easter.

In essence, the Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima is Bergamo's unique way of celebrating Carnival midway through Lent, preserving ancient traditions, showcasing local pride, and bringing the community together for a fun, cathartic event.

Enjoy !!!

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