The Carnival of Novara involves the whole city, with initiatives dedicated to all citizens and great attention to the little ones. Traditionally the festivities open with the handover of the keys of the city by the mayor to King Biscottino, a typical mask of Novara together with his consort, Queen Cüneta.
The culmination of the Carnival is the Great Parade of Floats, which involves historical figures, folk bands and masks that parade through the city streets. The festivities conclude during Mardi Gras with the Grand Ball of the children and the Grand Masquerade Ball.