The town streets teem with allegorically-designed, papier-mâché floats, accompanied by music, confetti and masked crowds. Every year the rivalry between the city's two districts flares up again, the so-called Arcinobil Contrada di Piazzetta, with the bull as their ensign, versus the Nobil Contrada of Maremma, represented by a sheep. The two districts are divided geographically by San Gimignano's central square, Piazza del Duomo, which is considered a neutral area. Since time immemorial the two factions have expressed their rivalry by playing tricks and practical jokes on each other during the Carnival period, but today they work together to organise the allegorical floats that wind their way through the city streets. These vehicles set off in opposite directions from the town centre and then meet in Piazza del Duomo, which signals the official start of celebrations. The Carnival of San Gimignano markets itself first and foremost as a family event, using confetti and stars to make good on their priority that children have fun. Apart from the float procession, one can help out with the cultural displays, aimed at promoting the historic and architectural beauty of the Tuscan town.

Source: sangimignano.com