Il Martedì Grasso

The last day of Carnevale in Italy is Martedì Grasso

Martedì Grasso is the Italian term for Fat Tuesday, the last day of Carnevale before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. It is a day of feasting, celebrations, and masquerade parties, similar to Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Shrove Tuesday in other cultures.

In Italy, Martedì Grasso is especially famous in cities like Venice, with its grand Carnival and elaborate masks, and Viareggio, known for its massive float parades. The day marks the peak of Carnival festivities before the fasting and reflection period of Lent in the Christian tradition.

During Martedì Grasso in Italy, people indulge in rich and decadent foods before the fasting period of Lent begins.

One curious and fun tradition of Martedì Grasso in Italy is the “Battaglia delle Arance” (Battle of the Oranges) in Ivrea, Piedmont. 🍊🎭

It’s a massive food fight where thousands of people throw oranges at each other in the streets! The event reenacts a historical rebellion from the Middle Ages when the people of Ivrea overthrew a tyrannical ruler.

Emanuele Piva