Local Kids Carnivals in Florence & Prato

February 10

FLORENCE CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL, Piazza Ognissanti. 2 – 6 pm.

The Florence Children’s Carnival will be held for the 11^th year in Piazza Ognissanti. Children and parents alike, in costumes or masks, will spend a carefree afternoon enjoying entertainment and games.

Fun activities, such as inflatable toys, cotton candy and face painting will be provided throughout the carnival. In addition, rides on an electric train will be offered to kids for an unforgettable carnival memory. To wrap up the evening, participants will gather for a traditional Florentine tradition: the burning of Stenterello. Since the 1700’s, Stenerello has been a Florence carnival symbol. The bonfire represents the end of carnival and the arrival of lent.

February 11

“BARK” CARNIVAL, Via dell’Argingrosso 169. 2:30 – 5 pm.

The “Bark” Carnival is a fun event designed for children and their dogs. Organized by the Florentine Dog Academy, kids are invited to wear costumes and parade with their peers accompanied by their dogs. This will be followed by a treasure hunt for children and their four legged friends to participate in together, including a course that all dogs (even untrained) can conquer. An educational farm experience will be offered for younger children.

Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and winners of the treasure hunt. Free samples of organic dog food will also be offered at the event.

CARNIVAL AT THE EMPERORS CASTLE, Castello dell’Imperatore, Prato. 11 am.

The Carnival at the Emperors Castle is a medieval themed event for children ages 4-12. Children are invited to come dressed in costumes for a guided tour of the castle. The tour led by Bianca, a character dressed as Emperor Fredrick Edwards II’s wife, will include history lessons, streamers and confetti. The cost of the event is €5 and a reservation must be made by calling 0574 38207 from 10 am to 4pm. Reservations made on February 10^th must be made before 1 pm. (izzy lunow)