Italy may be full of problems right now, but fortunately, there are plenty of occasions where you can forget your cares. The Christmas decorations are no sooner down than its time to start thinking of Carnival, a month-long jolly that goes on until Lent. Since Easter is early this year, Carnival celebrations have already begun in many places, such as the town of Busseto, 50 miles from Parma, where the traditional Carnival of Laughter sparked off on the 20^th January.

The Busseto Carnival has been running for 127 years and ranks alongside the major Italian carnivals better known abroad, such as Venice and Viareggio. Every Sunday it offers new shows for its visitors, with over 15,000 local people participating.

Busseto has others claims to fame. It is the birthplace of the famous Italian composer, Giuseppe Verdi, and the writer, Giovannino Guarschi, creator of the Don Camillo and Peppone series, a gentle political satire set in a post-war Italian village.

Among the highlights of this years event is the Don Camillo and Peppone award which will be presented to the best couple dressed up as the truculent Communist mayor and his belligerent opponent, the parish priest, Don Camillo. This is a unique event to mark the centenary of Guareschis birth. The traditional Laughter King award will be presented to the funniest disguise.

A jury of 10, chosen from among the visitors to the town, votes for the best costumes every Sunday. At the closing day of Carnival (10^th February this year),  a prestigious prize is awarded to the best Carnival float. This years themes are Italian politics and world economics. If you think these are no laughing matter, Busseto invites you to come to their show and change your mind!

For information: Ufficio Turistico di Bussto

Infoline: Patrizia Gallo, mobile: 339/4007842

Email: info@carnevaledibusseto.it

www.carnevaledibusseto.it