Città di Vita International Folklore Festival

The Vita Folklore Festival

The Città di Vita International Folklore Festival is one of the most iconic summer events in Vita, a charming village in the province of Trapani, Sicily. Each year, in the heart of summer, the historic town center comes alive with performances by folkloric groups from various continents, bringing traditional dances, songs, and customs to life in a grand celebration of cultural exchange.

A history dating back to 1966

The festival's roots trace back to 1966, when the tradition of folkloric events began in Vita, later becoming a staple in the 1990s. It is organized by the Sicilia Bedda Folkloric Group, founded in 1993 by enthusiasts from Salemi and Vita dedicated to Sicilian folk music and dance. Over the years, the group has performed across Europe and the world—from France to Spain, Bulgaria to Turkey, and as far as Morocco, Mexico, and China—serving as a proud ambassador of the island's traditions.

Costumes, music, and dance from around the world

The festival is a vibrant explosion of color and sound. Guest groups parade and perform in their authentic national attire, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the accordion, guitar, mandolin, tambourine, and the characteristic Sicilian friscaletto flute. Past editions have featured performers from Argentina, Bulgaria, Egypt, Slovakia, and many other nations, performing alongside local Sicilian groups.

• Parades of folkloric groups through the village streets
• Evening shows featuring traditional dance and music
• Side events and social gatherings, including the traditional sausage feast

A symbol of brotherhood among peoples

More than just a series of performances, the Vita Festival has always been a moment of connection. Different cultures, the vivid colors of traditional dress, and diverse rhythms blend into a single great celebration, serving as a symbol of peace, brotherhood, and harmony among peoples. For this reason, it is considered one of the most significant events in the Western Sicilian folkloric landscape.

Vita, the smallest village in the Trapani area

Founded in 1607 by Baron Vito Sicomo of Calatafimi, Vita is the smallest municipality by area in the province of Trapani and one of the highest in altitude. Visiting during the festival offers the chance to discover an authentic Sicilian inland village, known for its hospitality and traditions, animated for a few nights by the music and colors of the world.