A Rattata Sicilian Granita Festival

'A Rattata': Sicilian granita takes center stage in Sant'Angelo di Brolo

Nestled in the heart of the Nebrodi mountains, surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, the village of Sant'Angelo di Brolo preserves one of Sicily's most cherished culinary traditions: granita. 'A Rattata' is the festival dedicated to this iconic summer treat, bringing Piazza Vittorio Emanuele to life every August with tastings, fragrant aromas, and folk music. The event is organized by the Municipality of Sant'Angelo di Brolo, in the Province of Messina, Sicily.

The meaning behind the name

The festival's title tells a story of its own. The 'rattata' refers to the traditional method of scraping ice to make granita, a technique that connects modern culinary practices to the sherbet, the Arab ancestor of today's sorbet and Sicilian granita. It is no coincidence that the full name of the event, since its inception, has been 'A Rattata... from sherbet to Sicilian granita': a journey through time that explains how this frozen dessert became an icon of the island's identity.

Live cooking and tastings

The highlight of the evening is the series of live cooking demonstrations and artisanal granita tastings, prepared according to ancient recipes using genuine, local ingredients. Visitors can savor the most beloved traditional flavors:

• Lemon: fresh and fragrant, the ultimate classic
• Almond: sweet and smooth
• Coffee: intense, best enjoyed with a brioche col tuppo
• Mulberry: deep in color with an authentic, rich flavor
• Pistachio: the pride of Sicilian pastry-making

Alongside the granita, the festival showcases the artistry of local master makers and producers, featuring an awards ceremony for the best granita in the Nebrodi region.

Music and atmosphere

'A Rattata' is more than just a culinary event; it is a true village celebration. Tastings are accompanied by live musical entertainment, with folk groups performing traditional Sicilian songs and rhythms, filling the square with a warm, convivial atmosphere. It is the perfect opportunity to spend a summer evening in the village, wandering through narrow alleys, enjoying panoramic views of the Nebrodi, and experiencing the hospitality of the local community.

A village to discover

Visiting Sant'Angelo di Brolo during 'A Rattata' is a chance to discover an authentic corner of the Tyrrhenian coast, just a few kilometers from the sea. Immersed in the greenery of the Nebrodi Park, the town combines the delight of granita with a rich heritage of churches, religious traditions, and a cuisine that reflects the soul of Messina. It is a delicious and genuine stop for those seeking the most authentic side of Sicily, far from the beaten tourist path.