Bagheria and Aspra Carnival
The city and seaside carnival between Bagheria and the fishing village of Aspra
About Bagheria Carnival
The Bagheria and Aspra Carnival
The Bagheria Carnival is one of the most cherished popular events in the Palermo area. Promoted by the Municipality of Bagheria, in the province of Palermo, in collaboration with the Pro Loco of Aspra and the Metropolitan City of Palermo, it spans several days and encompasses both the city center and the seaside hamlet of Aspra, bringing to life a carnival of both "city and sea."
Two souls: the city and the sea
The festival unfolds along two complementary poles. In the center, Corso Umberto I hosts the grand opening with allegorical floats, masks, and widespread musical entertainment that engages both adults and children. In Aspra, an ancient fishing village overlooking the gulf, the seafront becomes the heart of the "Sea Carnival": a parade of floats and costumed groups travels through the village streets before gathering by the sea for music, dancing, and festivities.
Schools take center stage
A fundamental part of the event is dedicated to the youth. The Children's Carnival and student parades, which start from Via Libertà and cross Corso Butera and Corso Umberto, involve the city's schools, from primary to secondary levels. Each year, students create outfits, costumes, and works inspired by the chosen theme, which are presented at the end of the parade.
A community tradition
More than just a parade, the Bagheria Carnival is a landmark event that unites the city with its seaside village. Each edition adopts a central theme—from cinema to the meeting of cultures—that provides coherence to the floats and costumes. Free and open to all, it is an opportunity to discover Bagheria, also known for its Baroque villas, and the picturesque fishing village of Aspra in a festive and colorful light.
Bagheria Carnival — edition 2026
The theme of the 2026 edition, "The Carnival of Peoples," celebrated the richness of the identities and stories that coexist in the Bagheria community. The event, promoted by the Municipality of Bagheria with Pro Loco Aspra APS, took place between the city center and the seaside village of Aspra. Due to bad weather, the Shrove Tuesday parade was postponed and rescheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026, as the "Spring Carnival."
Programme Bagheria Carnival 2026
Saturday, February 14 — 4:00 PM
The Carnival of Peoples — official opening along Corso Umberto I.
- Parade of two allegorical floats
- Widespread musical entertainment and collective celebration
Sunday, February 15 — 4:00 PM
The Sea Carnival — the party moves to the Aspra seafront.
- Allegorical floats and costume parade
- Music and entertainment along the fishing village
Monday, February 16 — 8:30 AM
Children's Carnival — parade dedicated to children from municipal schools.
- Route: Via Libertà → Corso Butera → Corso Umberto → Piazza Garibaldi
Tuesday, February 17 — 8:30 AM (postponed to April 20 due to bad weather)
Grand finale with the Carnival of Peoples for primary and secondary school students.
- Route: Via Libertà → Corso Butera → Corso Umberto → Via Diego D'Amico → Piazza Levante
- Presentation of outfits and works inspired by the year's theme
Spring Carnival — Monday, April 20, 8:30 AM
Rescheduled Shrove Tuesday parade: gathering of floats on Via Libertà and student parade to Piazza Levante.
Highlights Bagheria Carnival 2026
Prices Bagheria Carnival 2026
Practical information — Bagheria Carnival
Getting there
Bagheria is located about 15 km east of Palermo, in Sicily. It is easily accessible by train (Bagheria station on the Palermo-Messina line) or by car via the A19 Palermo-Catania motorway, taking the Bagheria exit. Aspra is just a few minutes from the center.
Cost
Admission to all Carnival events is free.
Tips
During the parades, traffic restrictions are in place in the affected areas (Corso Umberto I, Corso Butera, Aspra seafront): it is advisable to reach the center on foot or park in the peripheral areas.
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Where does it take place — Bagheria Carnival
Corso Umberto I e Lungomare di Aspra
Corso Umberto I, 90011 Bagheria