Livigno celebrates carnival in the spirit of winter sports

Carnival, also known as the fifth season, has already begun in Italy. One of the main carnival hotspots in the southern Alps is the ski resort of Livigno in Lombardy, where the high point of the festivities will be celebrated with particular gusto and exuberance from February 11 to 16, 2010, with several events. Some hotels in Livigno offer their guests special carnival packages, making it possible to enjoy a ski holiday in Lombardy during carnival at a great price. In Livigno, three nights’ accommodation, including a ski pass and free admission to one of the largest snow parks in the Alps and Italy, are available at heavily discounted prices over carnival.

Carnival in Livigno

The festivities kick off on February 11 with a winter pentathlon, where having fun should be the main priority—not just sporting performance. From 9 p.m., in traditional costumes and under floodlights, participants will hit Livigno’s slopes and trails to find the best all-rounder in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing. On February 13, 2010, Plaza Placheda in the center of Livigno will be the stage for the carnival parade, which starts at 1 p.m. and will feature themed floats, witches and costumed revellers. The event will be accompanied by the “Don Carlos” orchestra, which will provide musical entertainment before and after the parade and ensure a great party atmosphere around Plaza Placheda in Livigno.