Castiglione di Sicilia Carnival

The Castiglione di Sicilia Carnival

The Castiglione di Sicilia Carnival is one of the most anticipated annual events in this medieval village perched on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, in the Province of Catania. Recognized as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, Castiglione provides the perfect backdrop for a celebration of color and tradition that transforms the alleys and squares of the historic center into an open-air stage for several days.

Parades and Allegorical Floats

The heart of the event lies in the parades of allegorical floats and masked groups, which depart from Piazza Lauria and wind through the village. Each year, numerous groups—many composed of young people from the surrounding hamlets and the wider area—officially register for the event, preparing handmade costumes, choreography, and floats. The parade is the most awaited moment, drawing visitors from across the Etna region.

Evening Dance Parties in the Squares

Alongside the daytime parades, the program includes evening dance parties that rotate through the town's main squares: Piazza Lauria, Piazza XII Agosto, and Piazza San Martino. At night, these squares fill with music and dancing, extending the festivities late into the night in the convivial spirit typical of Sicilian popular celebrations.

A Community Celebration

Over time, the Castiglione Carnival has become a landmark event for the entire region, successfully engaging entire families, children, and youth groups. It is promoted by the Municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia through its tourism office, with free admission to all activities.

Castiglione di Sicilia and Mount Etna

The setting makes the event even more evocative: Castiglione di Sicilia overlooks the Alcantara Valley, surrounded by Etna DOC vineyards and the villages of the Alcantara River Park. Visiting the town during Carnival is also the perfect opportunity to explore the historic center, the Lauria Castle, and the Church of San Pietro, located in one of the most fascinating territories of north-eastern Sicily.