Cuor di Gelato – Artisanal Ice Cream Festival

A festival in the heart of the Madonie

In Castellana Sicula, a small town in the province of Palermo tucked away in the Madonie Park, artisanal ice cream takes center stage for a few days. Cuor di Gelato – Artisanal Ice Cream Festival is an annual event that draws food lovers, curious visitors, and fans of Sicilian culinary traditions, turning the town's squares, streets, and historic shops into a grand itinerary of taste.

Created to honor the region's long-standing ice cream tradition, the festival is promoted by the Municipality of Castellana Sicula in collaboration with local master ice cream makers and pastry chefs, with the support of the Sicilian Region as part of the promotion of the Mediterranean diet, a UNESCO heritage site.

The seven-stop "Heart Tour"

The most anticipated moment is the famous "Heart Tour", a free tasting trail winding through seven stops at bars, gelaterias, and pastry shops in the town center. At each stop, a master ice cream maker presents one of their signature flavors, often served alongside traditional Castellana bread and biscuits—two local bakery excellences. It is a unique opportunity to discover the variety and quality of local ice cream, ranging from classic almond, hazelnut, and citrus flavors to more modern, creative concoctions.

Cooking shows, nature, and culture

Alongside the tastings, the program features itinerant cooking shows dedicated to the art of making ice cream and granita, with demonstrations by expert makers. There are also nature walks to discover the aromatic herbs of the Madonie, which are used to flavor granitas and ice creams, as well as cultural moments such as book presentations and visits to the Civic Museum and the town's archaeological site.

Music, families, and a festive atmosphere

• Musical performances and live concerts in the historic squares
• Entertainment and activities for children, including games and workshops
• The characteristic Cordella parade, an ancient traditional procession of the town
• Food stalls and a convivial atmosphere until late in the evening

An autumn appointment in the Madonie

Over the years, the festival has shifted between late summer and autumn, taking place between September and October depending on the edition. The tastings are free and the event is designed for all ages. For those visiting the Madonie, Cuor di Gelato is the perfect occasion to combine the discovery of Castellana Sicula, its alleys, and its heritage with the pleasure of authentic artisanal ice cream, a genuine expression of the Sicilian confectionery tradition.