Canicattini Carnival
Masked parades, allegorical floats, and competitive groups in the heart of the Iblei mountains
About Canicattini Carnival
A popular celebration in the Iblei mountains
The Canicattini Carnival is one of the most cherished events in Canicattini Bagni, a town nestled in the Iblei mountains in the province of Syracuse, in the heart of the Sicilian Baroque area. For several days, the historic center streets are filled with color, music, and masks, drawing people of all ages into an atmosphere of shared joy. The festival is organized by the Municipal Administration in partnership with the Pro Loco ETS, with the support of local associations, schools, and businesses.
Parades and masked groups
The heart of the event lies in the masked group parades and allegorical floats along Via Vittorio Emanuele, which bring the town to life, especially on Carnival Sunday and Shrove Tuesday. The groups compete in a prize competition that highlights imagination, costumes, and choreography: in the most recent edition, six groups showcased original themes, accompanied by marching bands and local flag-wavers.
Piazza XX Settembre, the evening stage
The central Piazza XX Settembre is the hub of the evening festivities, featuring DJ sets, live concerts, entertainment, and shows that continue late into the night. There is no shortage of food stalls offering traditional Iblei flavors to keep the crowd energized between parades.
A space for the little ones
The Carnival pays special attention to children, with games, entertainment, and creative workshops. Among the historic initiatives is the Carnival in the Library, featuring readings and activities dedicated to younger children, alongside the active involvement of local schools. It is an event that blends popular tradition, folklore, and community spirit, confirming Canicattini Bagni as a vibrant and welcoming community in the province of Syracuse, Sicily.
Canicattini Carnival — edition 2026
Canicattini Carnival 2026
The 2026 edition took place from February 12 to 17 and concluded on Tuesday with over 200 participants, including adults and children. The event was organized by the Municipal Administration led by Mayor Paolo Amenta, with the patronage of the Sicilian Region and the collaboration of local entities.
Six masked groups paraded, coordinated by Alice La Mesa and accompanied by the "Sbandieratori e Musici Casale Canicattini" group, with the participation of local schools. The prize competition saw the group "Troppo dolci per essere veri" take first place, followed by "Atelier Primavera" and "Viaggio intorno al mondo". The evenings in Piazza XX Settembre featured a mix of DJ sets, concerts, and entertainment, confirming the Carnival as one of the most beloved events for the Iblei community.
Programme Canicattini Carnival 2026
2026 Program
- Thursday, February 12 (Shrove Thursday): Opening of the festivities
- Carnival Sunday: Parade of masked groups and allegorical floats along Via Vittorio Emanuele
- Tuesday, February 17 (Shrove Tuesday): Final parade, awards ceremony for the groups, and closing evening in Piazza XX Settembre
Highlights Canicattini Carnival 2026
- Over 200 participants, including adults and children
- Six masked groups in competition
- 1st prize: "Troppo dolci per essere veri" (1,500 euros)
- Sbandieratori e Musici Casale Canicattini
- Dance evenings and concerts in Piazza XX Settembre
Prices Canicattini Carnival 2026
Practical information — Canicattini Carnival
Where
The parades take place along Via Vittorio Emanuele, while the evening events are centered in Piazza XX Settembre, in the heart of Canicattini Bagni (SR).
When
During the Carnival period (February-March), with the highlights occurring on Carnival Sunday and Shrove Tuesday.
Admission
A free, open-air event, open to everyone.
How to get there
Canicattini Bagni can be reached by car from Syracuse via the SP14; during parade days, traffic changes are expected in the historic center.
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Where does it take place — Canicattini Carnival
Piazza XX Settembre