The “Corso Fiorito” or Flower Parade, held every September on Verbania lakefront, has become a classic event in the summer calendar of events on Lake Maggiore.

The Parade was started in 1909 as a showcase for the skill of local gardeners and as a way of publicising the beauty of the flowers grown in the lake area. The first “floats” were the carriages of the local nobility, bicycles and early cars.

Today more than ever, this “battle of the flowers” has become a spectacular event demonstrating an unparalleled standard of skill. The floats are now decorated with thousands of flowers, compositions, statues, clothes made entirely of flowers, testifying to the creative imagination of local growers. The public has responded by attending the event in increasing numbers to marvel at the skill and artistry on display.

Various techniques are used in decorating the floats. The supporting structures are made by local craftsmen, and “dressed” by the laborious application of the imagination of the flower growers. Each medium-sized float requires on average 20,000 flowers.

A unique spectacle of flowers and colours, not to be missed!