CastelRock
The rock festival in the village of Castelmola, featuring live music and panoramic views of Mount Etna
About CastelRock
Rock comes to the village of Castelmola
CastelRock is the most anticipated musical event in Castelmola, a charming medieval village perched above Taormina in the province of Messina, Sicily. Every year, the central Piazza Sant'Antonio transforms into an open-air stage where bands, independent artists, and emerging local groups take turns performing from the afternoon until late at night, with the sun setting behind Mount Etna providing a natural backdrop.
A story born from passion
The festival was founded in 2011 by the Pro Loco of Castelmola and, edition after edition, has become one of the most popular musical events in the Taormina area. Originally linked to the symbolic date of May 1st, in recent years the event has been moved to late spring. Behind the organization is the hard work of many young people and volunteers, coordinated by Pro Loco president Maria Concetta Santoro, with the goal of promoting the village through culture and offering local musicians a real opportunity to perform.
What to expect
CastelRock is not just a simple concert, but a full day of shared music. The stage hosts groups that span various genres:
- Classic rock and historical sounds of the genre
- Alternative rock and the independent scene
- Metal and blues influences
- Performances by young students and emerging musical projects
Admission is free of charge, a choice consistent with the festival's spirit: creating moments of gathering and participation open to everyone, from local residents to the many tourists who climb up to Castelmola to admire its views.
A village to discover
Attending CastelRock is also a great opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful villages in eastern Sicily. Castelmola overlooks Taormina and the Ionian coast from above, with its stone alleys, panoramic terraces, and the famous almond wine enjoyed in the historic bars of the square. The medieval setting and the view of Mount Etna make every edition of the festival a unique experience, where live music blends with the identity of the territory.
CastelRock — edition 2026
CastelRock 2026 — the 15th edition
The fifteenth edition of CastelRock took place on Monday, June 1st, 2026, from 4:00 PM in the central Piazza Sant'Antonio of Castelmola. The program brought together local groups and artists for a long day of live outdoor music.
Among the artists announced on stage: students from the Decibel Music Lab by Yari Pavone, Andres Emmi, Charlie Strazzeri, Debora Ferrero, Ironika..Mente, The Isotopes, Mivida C.C.O., and Topless, with sounds ranging from classic rock to alternative, metal, and blues. The event was hosted by Rosario Sorace, with the collaboration of Miranda Grasso. Admission was free of charge.
Programme CastelRock 2026
Highlights CastelRock 2026
Prices CastelRock 2026
Practical information — CastelRock
How to get there
Castelmola can be reached by car from Taormina along the SP10 (about 10 minutes of scenic driving). From the A18 Messina-Catania motorway, take the Taormina exit and continue towards the village. By train, the reference station is Taormina-Giardini, which is connected to Castelmola by local buses and taxis.
Admission and times
Free admission. The event takes place in Piazza Sant'Antonio, usually from the afternoon until late at night.
Tips
We recommend arriving at the village early due to limited parking. Don't miss a walk through the alleys and a stop at the historic bars in the square.
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Where does it take place — CastelRock
Piazza Sant'Antonio
Piazza Sant'Antonio, 98030 Castelmola