Zinghenesta

Zinghenesta

The Carnival of the Dolomites is an event that brings together folklore, art, tradition and storytelling, as well as music and dancing, all in a happy, cheerful atmosphere..

It takes place every year on the last Sunday of Carnival, the next appointment will be February 15, 2026.
Each valley has a different typical carnival figure that is the star of the carnival celebrations, which always bring in the crowds.
What the Carnival of all the valleys have in common is the presence of a guiding character and others that play the part of their courtiers, each with a different social role.
The Val del Biois Carnival parade takes place in Canale d’Agordo on the last Sunday of the Carnival period, and celebrates the proclamation of the Zinghenesta, the most beautiful girl in the village.
The election of the Zinghenesta of the year is a moment of great joy, and the girl, dressed in traditional attire, parades and dances through the streets of the centre, accompanied by the Matèl, which can be recognised from the tall cone-shaped hat and the multi-coloured ribbons hanging down from their neck, and the Laché, similarly dressed, but with a shorter hat.
Each carnival figure has a specific role, which follows a tradition passed down through the ages; other characters present include the Paiàzo and the Bèr, both wearing distinctive wooden masks, as well as the Spazzacamino and many others.
This is an experience not to be missed if you’re spending a holiday in Falcade and the surrounding area during the Carnival period.