Francofonte Red Orange Festival

The festival of Francofonte's iconic citrus

Located in the heart of the Catania Plain but within the province of Syracuse, the town of Francofonte is known as the 'city of citrus'. Every year between February and March, it hosts the Francofonte Red Orange Festival, one of the most beloved food and wine events in Eastern Sicily. The festival celebrates the PGI Sicilian red orange in its three prized varieties—Tarocco, Moro, and Sanguinello—a fruit that has driven the town's agricultural success and colors markets across the island.

A nationally recognized tradition

Organized by the Pro Loco Francofonte APS with the patronage of the Municipality of Francofonte, the festival has gained prestige far beyond regional borders over the years. The event has been awarded the 'Quality Festival' mark by the Italian National Union of Pro Loco (UNPLI), a recognition even celebrated with an award ceremony at the Italian Senate: a seal that certifies organizational excellence and the ability to promote the territory through local traditions and products.

What to expect at the festival

For two days, the historic center of Francofonte—spanning Via Vittorio Emanuele, Piazza Garibaldi, and Piazza del Popolo—transforms into a vibrant hub of popular celebration. The program blends taste, folklore, and entertainment:

• Tasting stalls offering fresh juice, pastries, jams, and recipes featuring red oranges, alongside local products and handicrafts;
• Sicilian cart parade accompanied by the town marching band, a symbol of island tradition;
• Street artists, giants, flag-wavers, and entertainment to engage families and children;
• Classic and tuning car meets in the town squares;
• Amusement rides and games for children, plus photography exhibitions;
• Evening concerts with nationally renowned guests and closing DJ sets.

An event for all of Sicily

With attendance regularly exceeding several thousand visitors, the Francofonte Red Orange Festival is now a staple of the late-winter Sicilian festival calendar. It serves not only as a showcase for the region's citrus excellence but also as an opportunity to discover the identity of Francofonte and the charm of the hinterland between the provinces of Syracuse and Catania.