Castelbuono Historical Carnival

A centuries-old tradition in the heart of the Madonie

The Castelbuono Historical Carnival is one of the most deeply rooted events in the Madonie district, located in the municipality of Castelbuono, in the province of Palermo, in the heart of Sicily. It is a folk festival with ancient origins, which local tradition traces back centuries, with some tales even linking it to the jesters of the Ventimiglia court, the ancient lords of the village. In 2026, the Castelbuono Carnival received important official recognition from the Ministry of Culture, which included it among the Historical Carnivals of Italy, certifying its cultural, social, and identity-based value.

Galas and local satire

The beating heart of the festival is the historical galas, held at the Cine Teatro Astra. On stage, famous local satire groups perform, staging a sharp irony on the town's characters and events through prose, verse, and song. It is a form of popular comedy passed down from generation to generation, which has seen numerous historical groups take the stage over time and still represents the most authentic soul of the Carnival today.

Allegorical float parades

Allegorical floats, carefully crafted by local groups, parade through the streets and squares of the historic center, reproducing local events and figures with a touch of satire. The parades are accompanied by masks, majorettes, drummers, and street performers in an atmosphere of great popular participation. Castelbuono also shares some moments of the festival with the nearby town of San Mauro Castelverde, in an exchange of floats that strengthens the bond between the two Madonie communities.

Children's Carnival

Plenty of space is dedicated to the little ones with the Children's Carnival: masked parades, entertainment, games, mascots, and shows designed for families. The town's squares, from Piazza Matteotti to Piazza Margherita, transform into a large open-air stage.

An experience in the Madonie

Experiencing the Castelbuono Carnival also means discovering one of the most fascinating villages in Sicily: the charming historic center, the Ventimiglia Castle, the churches, and the narrow alleys of the town provide the ideal backdrop for the festival. It is the perfect opportunity to combine tradition, taste, and culture, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a community that lives the Carnival with passion.