Coronation of King Pitoc
Try to arrive early; costumed participants gather for this festive ceremony.
~18:00
Carnevale di Re Pitoc
Feb 11 - 14, 2027Expected
Each Carnival, the lakeside town of Brissago crowns its King Pitoc. Costumed parades wind through the town and end with the burning of a clown effigy that marks the close of carnival, in a celebration that reflects the rural, lakeside carnival spirit of Ticino.
The Carnival of King Pitoc record is date-tracked, but stronger reviewed Field Guide media would make it easier to inspect.
About media standardsDay 1 · Feb 11
Try to arrive early; costumed participants gather for this festive ceremony.
~18:00
Day 3 · Feb 13
Find a spot along the parade route or near the square by 13:30 for optimal viewing.
~14:00 - 16:00
Day 4 · Feb 14
Arrive early to secure a good position; this emotive ritual is atmospheric and draws a large crowd.
~18:00
Brissago, Switzerland
Open in MapsRespect local carnival customs and the ceremonial burning of the clown effigy.
Crowds gather around the square; space is open but the main stage area can get packed
Event is held outdoors in late winter; rain or snow may occur.
PostBus lines from Lugano (431) and Locarno stop in Brissago
Free events are available.
Brissago is very safe; standard Swiss event security and police are present.

LOCAL COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Carnevale di Re Pitoc
Brissago, Switzerland
Each Carnival, the lakeside town of Brissago crowns its King Pitoc. Costumed parades wind through the town and end with the burning of a clown effigy that marks the close of carnival, in a celebration that reflects the rural, lakeside carnival spirit of Ticino.
As part of Ticino’s Carnival season, Brissago’s village celebration reflects rural and lake-side traditions. It shares elements with larger carnivals (parades, music) but serves to reinforce local community bonds.
Try to arrive early; costumed participants gather for this festive ceremony.
Find a spot along the parade route or near the square by 13:30 for optimal viewing.
Arrive early to secure a good position; this emotive ritual is atmospheric and draws a large crowd.
first-timer tips
Respect local carnival customs and the ceremonial burning of the clown effigy.
Feb 11 - 14, 2027
Estimated
Brissago
Italian-speaking Switzerland (Ticino)
Lugano Airport (LUG) · 25 km from festival
Free entry
About CHF 60-150 per day depending on lodging
Festive and energetic, with music and dancing throughout the 4 days...
Crowds gather around the square; space is open but the ma...
Families, culture enthusiasts
Very High visitor welcome

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