Favignana in Maschera (Carnival)

The Carnival of Favignana Island

Favignana in Maschera is the Carnival festival of the largest island in the Egadi archipelago, located in the municipality of Favignana, in the province of Trapani, at the western tip of Sicily. For a few days between February and March, the island's small historic center transforms into an open-air stage, where confetti, streamers, music, and merriment fill the streets and squares. It is one of the most cherished events for the Egadi community, bringing residents and visitors together in an authentic, family-friendly atmosphere.

A Community Celebration

The event is organized by the Pro Loco Isole Egadi with the patronage of the Municipality of Favignana and the collaboration of local associations and citizens. In recent years, under the presidency of Massimiliano Saladino, the event has been revitalized as a moment of social gathering and promotion of island identity. The Favignana Carnival is not a grand, spectacular parade like those in major cities, but rather a village festival where participation, sharing, and creativity are what matter most.

Parades, Dancing, and Traditional Costumes

The program spans several days and centers on masked parades, open-air dances, and the traditional costumes that wind through the village streets. There is no shortage of entertainment for the little ones, involving local school children, alongside live artistic performances and music. The heart of the festivities is the main square of Favignana, though the carnival spirit spreads throughout the entire town.

The Carnival of the Egadi

Favignana in Maschera is part of the broader Egadi Carnival tradition, which also includes the islands of Marettimo and Levanzo. Alongside the parades and floats, the festival is tied to local gastronomy and the rituals that mark the end of the carnival season, such as the characteristic conclusion on Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso). Experiencing Carnival on the island means discovering a different side of Favignana compared to the summer beach season: more intimate, authentic, and deeply connected to its roots.

When it takes place

The Favignana Carnival is held annually during the carnival season, between February and March. The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been officially announced by the organizers at the time of writing: we recommend checking the social media channels of the Pro Loco Isole Egadi and the Municipality of Favignana for the updated program.