Shkodra CarnivalKarnavalet e Shkodrës

Shkodra Carnival (Karnavalet e Shkodrës) is a week-long pre-Lenten festival in Shkodër held each February. Dating back to the late 19th century, it features daily parades, masquerades and public performances 1 2. Colorful Venetian-style masks and costumes line the streets, continuing the city’s centuries-old 'surretë' carnival tradition 3 2. The celebrations are organized by the municipality and draw families and thousands of local revelers. 4

Carnival has deep roots in Shkodër’s multi-religious heritage, blending Catholic mask traditions with local highland folklore. It revives the old custom (surretë) of Kostume and music each year before Lent, allowing the community to express humor, satire and craftsmanship 1 2. The event is now a major cultural asset for northern Albania, reflecting Shkodrë’s identity as a historical city of festivities.