Bandir gennaio

Bandir Gennaio in the Old Town 2026: this year it makes noise… in costume!

On Saturday, 31 January 2026, the historic centre of Locarno will be filled with sounds, colours and laughter with the return of Bandir Gennaio in the Old Town. The tradition of dragging tin cans (tölle) through the streets joins, for the first time, the magic of the Locarno Carnival.

Children, this is your moment!
Come in costume, armed with tin cans and a great desire to make noise: together we will chase winter away with joy, music and imagination.

The event is organised by the Pro Città Vecchia Association, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, in collaboration with the Stranociada Association, bringing along two energetic guggen bands. They will lead and close the parade, turning the streets into one big musical celebration.

Among masks, clanging sounds, festive music and smiles, children will be the true stars of an afternoon where tradition and Carnival come together to offer everyone a moment of pure joy.

Programme:

4:15 pm – Meeting point at Piazza Sant’Antonio in front of the Stranociada marquee

4:45 pm – Parade departure

5:00 pm – Arrival at Piazza Grande near the stage and greetings from the municipal authorities and the President of Pro Città Vecchia on the occasion of the 50th anniversary jubilee

5:30 pm – Snack at the marquee and children’s costume dance with Radio Ticino providing music for the little ones

6:45 pm – Exit from the Carnival are