If you’re in Italy this February then you’ll get to celebrate Carnival the Italian way. Instead of booking the next train to Venice, where many flock for the biggest celebration in the country, stay in Rome, avoid the crowds, and party just the same.

Carnival is the festival directly before Lent. Celebrations typically last throughout the month of February and you can bet that most major Italian cities will offer parades and events. Rome’s calendar is sure to be packed with enough events for you to get your fill of the party season. Usually, Romans kick off Carnival in the Piazza Navona with a traditional children’s masked ball including a parade and floats. The event starts around three in the afternoon and is popular so get there a bit early. If you happen to miss this opening event, no need to worry. Floats and daily activities return to Piazza Navona throughout the month.

Probably the most popular event takes place in Piazza del Popolo. An equestrian show features acrobats on horseback and a unique game of basketball, aptly called “horseball” where you guessed it, people play basketball on horseback.

Also, the last night of Carnival is marked with a firework show from the Pincio. Be sure to check for exact dates in the paper for these traditional events. 

And no Italian Carnival would be properly celebrated without popping a few Castagnole in your mouth. These bite sized fried and sugar covered dough balls can be found in any local bakery. They’re usually sold a few weeks before Carnival and are a delicious and cheap treat that lets you know the festive season is just around the corner.