that gave the inhabitants more freedom. Ivrea's Carnival celebration now includes parades in medieval costumes, folkloristic ensembles, and musical performances from Italy and Europe. While enjoying the festive ambiance, don't forget to try the typical carnival dish, Fagiolata, a delicious bean soup. Acireale The exquisite floats decked with fresh flowers, which give beauty and fragrance to the streets of Acireale, are largely responsible for the Carnival's reputation as one of Italy's most stunning. In the 16th century, revelers in "Acireale" used to celebrate Carnival by flinging rotten eggs and lemons, but when these activities were formally outlawed, they were replaced with far more refined traditions. Today, both floats and poets may be found at the Acireale Carnival, which is widely regarded as the "best Carnival in Sicily." In fact, it is so popular that the entire affair is recreated in August's mild summer weather. Apulia Not only is it the longest Carnival celebration in Europe, but it is also one of the oldest. Putignano's Carnival dates back to 1394, when St. Stephen's relics were moved inland to Putignano to safeguard them from invasion. Peasants abandoned their vineyards to join the parade, erupting in song, dancing, and improvised rhymes and poetry satirizing politicians, news, customs, and current events in the local vernacular. The festivities of this lengthy Carnival begin on December 26 and continue every Thursday until January 17, which is the feast day of St. Anthony the Great. History Although the origins of Carnival may be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman celebrations, it is associated with the Catholic world. In actuality, it is celebrated on Holy Days, the final day before Lent when feasting is permitted. Therefore, it does not have a fixed date, but rather relies on the day of Easter. In different places, the celebrations grew into a party and a parade for diverse causes. Whether the higher classes were exhibiting their wealth with elegantly decorated carriages or the poorer classes were following troops through the streets, carnival evolved across Italy. Many Carnivals were prohibited in the 18th century, only to be reinstated in the 20th. Gallery References Mussio, Gina. “Carnevale in Italy: What It Is and Where to Celebrate.” Ciao Andiamo, Ciao Andiamo, 7 Dec. 2021, https://ciaoandiamo.com/carnevale-in-italy-what-it-is-and-where-to-celebrate/. “Most Famous Carnival Celebrations in Italy.” Edited by FireBird Tours, Firebird Tours ®, FireBirdTours, 11 Oct. 2022, https://www.firebirdtours.com/blog/most-famous-carnival-celebrations-italy. Savarese, Maria Rosaria. “Carnevale in Italy - All You Need