9 February 2027 | Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast Carnival by the Sea: The Gran Carnevale di Maiori 2027
A carnival just steps from the Mediterranean, where towering floats glide along a seaside promenade framed by one of the world’s most iconic coastlines? Welcome to the Gran Carnevale di Maiori.
Set on the Amalfi Coast, this historic carnival transforms Maiori into an open-air theatre of colour, music and craftsmanship , a celebration where tradition meets sea views in spectacular fashion.
Giant Floats with a View of the Sea. The Programme
Recognised among Italy’s historic carnivals, the Gran Carnevale di Maiori reaches its peak during the grand float parades held on the seafront on Shrove Tuesday, the preceding Sunday and the following Sunday.
But these are not ordinary floats.
Work begins months earlier, as early as November, in workshops where local master artisans sketch, weld iron frameworks and carefully layer sheets of newspaper into sculptural forms. Through a process refined over more than five decades, simple materials are transformed into monumental creations reaching up to 11 metres in height.
The result? Moving works of art that parade against a Mediterranean backdrop of cliffs and sea, a rare combination that makes this one of the most visually striking carnival experiences in Italy.
In 2027, the Gran Carnevale di Maiori will celebrate its 53rd anniversary, a testament to a tradition proudly carried forward by the community.
Music, Dance and Community Energy
The carnival atmosphere extends well beyond the floats.
Each edition is accompanied by a vibrant calendar of events, revealed in the weeks leading up to the celebration. One of the most anticipated moments takes place at the harbour, where the dance groups perform their final choreographies at the end of the parade.
After leading the floats through town for hours, the dancers take centre stage in a burst of colour and rhythm.
And here lies the true spirit of the event: these performers are not professionals imported for the occasion. They are the residents of Maiori and neighbouring towns along the Amalfi Coast, families, friends and generations united by months of rehearsals and shared pride.
Every event of the Gran Carnevale di Maiori is free and open to all.
Why choose the Maiori Carnival?
- To dance in the streets next to the sea, as night falls over the stunning Amalfi Coast.
- To marvel at the craftsmanship of Maiori’s master papier-mâché artists, who have been creating captivating and intricate floats for over 50 years, blending iron and paper to create awe-inspiring displays.
- To enjoy a family-friendly celebration that promises carefree fun for both the young and the young at heart.
- To experience a side of the Amalfi Coast you never expected.
“Wear your brightest smile this Carnival and come to Maiori!”
What to pair with a weekend full of excitement:
- A walk along the Lemon Path in Maiori
- A Pizza Experience in Tramonti
- Exploring the hidden alleys of Amalfi
- Traditional dishes to sample: migliaccio praianese, a classic Carnival speciality. From the local culinary tradition of the Coast, spaghetti with Cetara DOP Colatura di Alici.
