Carnival weekend in Sicily: masks, traditions, and flavors

Acireale: Sicily’s most spectacular carnival

Start your weekend in Acireale, in the province of Catania, where one of Italy’s oldest and most spectacular carnivals takes place.

Stroll through the streets of the Baroque old town, brought to life by allegorical papier-mâché floats, parades of colorful masks, and flower-covered floats.

The atmosphere is electric, with shows, live music, and food stands offering local specialties such as rice zeppole, chiacchiere, and cannoli.

Don’t miss a visit to the Cathedral and Piazza Duomo, the beating heart of the festival.

Sciacca: the oldest Carnival in Sicily

Continue on to Sciacca, in the province of Agrigento, where one of the island’s oldest and most heartfelt Carnivals is celebrated.

The star of the show is Peppe Nappa, the historic local mask that opens and closes the festival with fireworks and bonfires.

Handcrafted allegorical floats parade through the streets with satire and irony, while marching bands enliven the entire city.

Try the carnival sfince and cassatella saccense in one of the many pastry shops in the center.

Termini Imerese: historical parades and winter flavors

End your trip in Termini Imerese, where one of Sicily’s longest-running historical carnivals (since the 17th century) is celebrated.

The iconic masks of Nanno and Nanna, symbols of the local carnival, open the parade of floats and masked groups along the streets of the center.

The highlight is the bonfire of Nanno, a symbolic ritual that marks the end of Carnival.

Stop at the bars and restaurants in the center to enjoy winter dishes such as pasta with broccoli arriminati and sfince di San Giuseppe.