Experience the spectacular Battle of the Oranges, a vibrant symbol of freedom and tradition, and immerse yourself in a unique day of history, colour and celebration.
Enjoy historic parades, ceremonies, bean feasts, food stalls and much more.
One of the world’s most distinctive carnivals – a city-wide celebration designed to delight visitors of all ages.
On this special day, Ivrea becomes a living stage, offering an immersive journey through history and legend. The Carnival tells the story of a centuries-old popular uprising, blending collective memory with the energy of a community that celebrates together.
At the heart of it all is the legendary Vezzosa Mugnaia, the miller’s daughter who defied tyranny and sparked a people’s fight for liberty. The Battle of the Oranges commemorates her act of courage: nine teams of orange throwers on foot face over fifty horse-drawn carts in a thrilling, highly choreographed contest.
The old town turns into a swirling theatre of flying oranges and cheering crowds, while spectators – safely wearing the traditional Phrygian cap – watch one of Europe’s most striking and unforgettable events unfold.
Yet Carnival Sunday is much more than the Battle. It’s a full day of events, parades, music and local flavours that capture the spirit of Ivrea. From early morning, the town welcomes visitors with celebrations for all ages: the Historic Parade, featuring the Mugnaia, the General and his Staff (the Generale and his Stato Maggiore) in full ceremonial dress; the traditional bean feasts, where hot “fagioli grassi” are served free to everyone; and the lively Orange Village, offering local produce and specialities from the Canavese region.
Experiencing the Carnival of Ivrea means being part of a living tradition – a festival that doesn’t rely on spectacle alone, but on authenticity, participation and memory. Year after year, it continues to inspire and move with the same genuine energy that has defined it for centuries.
