Rabadan Carnival 2026
Blog Published: September, 25 2024 (Updated On: November, 18 2025)Music, Madness and Magic: Get Ready for Rabadan Carnival 2026!
Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the 163rd edition of the Rabadan Carnival, one of Switzerland's most anticipated festivals.
Held annually in Bellinzona, this six-day extravaganza transforms the city into a whirlwind of colour, music, and unbridled joy. Dating back to 1862, this traditional carnival includes everything: from the high-energy parades to quirky costumes and an unforgettable experience for revellers of all ages.
What is Rabadan Carnival?
The name "Rabadan," from the local dialect meaning "noise" or "uproar," perfectly captures the festival's energetic atmosphere. In 2012, the carnival earned recognition as part of Switzerland’s intangible cultural heritage, cementing its status as a major cultural phenomenon drawing over 150,000 participants each year.
The magic and madness of the Rabadan Carnival
The festivities kick off on Fat Thursday when the mayor hands over the city’s keys to King and Queen Rabadan, who symbolically reign over Bellinzona for the week.
During this time, the city transforms into a "Carnival City," with concerts, dances, and energetic performances by the Guggen musical bands (famous in Swizerland) parading through the streets. Saturday is dedicated to these lively bands, while Sunday steals the show with the famous masked parade, where satirical floats entertain tens of thousands of spectators.
As the carnival wraps up on Tuesday, Bellinzona honours tradition with the distribution of risotto and luganighe (sausages).
In recent years, Rabadan has grown to welcome over 40,000 visitors each evening. The festival transforms Bellinzona into a vibrant stage, celebrating Ticino's rich culture and unity with passion and creativity.
Quick tips before going to Rabadan Carnival:
- Duration: The carnival spans six days, usually starting on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday and concluding on Shrove Tuesday.
- Grand Parades: Don’t miss the major highlight: the Grand Sunday Parade with satirical floats, humorously addressing political and social issues.
- Parties and Events: The Bellinzona’s streets fill with food stalls, live music, and street performances. The Guggen bands bring the festival to life with their signature style, performing typical off-key music. This year, the carnival will host a children's party and the Rabathlon on Monday.
- Ticketed Areas: While many parts of the carnival are open to the public, access to central areas where major events are held requires a carnival pass.
A celebration of tradition, music and passion
About the area
Bellinzona, the capital of Ticino, is the heart of Switzerland's Italian-speaking region. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of alpine routes, the city once played a vital role in controlling trade and military movements between northern and southern Europe. Its iconic medieval castles, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bellinzona’s old town, with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant markets, serves as a cultural and historical centre, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Ticino.
Event Details
Name of the event: Rabadan Carnival
Location: Several venues in Bellinzona
Date: 12-17 February, 2026
Official Event Website: Rabadan
Ready to experience the magic of Rabadan Carnival 2026?
