Ganzirri Carnival
The lakeside village Carnival, featuring masks, food stalls, and music on the Strait of Messina
About Ganzirri Carnival
The Carnival of the lakeside village of Ganzirri
The Ganzirri Carnival is one of the most heartfelt events in the far north of Messina, set in the heart of a characteristic fishing village overlooking the lake of the same name and the Strait. Despite being a young event, it has quickly become a landmark for local families, who gather in the village streets and Piazza Cutugno to enjoy a traditional masquerade festival filled with color, music, and conviviality.
Masks, parades, and food stalls
The program centers on the traditional masquerade parade that winds through the village, accompanied by costumed groups, entertainment, and music. Along the pedestrian area and in the square, you will find food stalls serving the famous local sausage and regional specialties, while artisans showcase their handmade creations. A special role is played by Atm Messina, which displays its historic buses alongside the collections of the Fiumanò Brothers, making the event a must-see for vintage vehicle enthusiasts.
Music and masquerade balls
The Carnival soundtrack is provided by DJ Andrea Zanghì, while entertainment keeps both adults and children engaged with shows and fun activities. The daytime festivities are followed by a grand masquerade ball in the evening on the shores of Lake Ganzirri, featuring dancing, competing groups, and performances that continue late into the night in true Carnival spirit.
An event rooted in the territory
Organized by local entities such as MP Eventi, the Ganzirri Carnival is a genuine expression of community life in this district of the Municipality of Messina, in the Province of Messina, in the Sicily region. Between the lake, the Strait, and the flavors of Sicilian cuisine, it is an event that blends popular tradition with a desire for togetherness, perfect for those wanting to discover the most authentic and festive side of the Messina Carnival.
Ganzirri Carnival — edition 2026
Ganzirri Carnival 2026 — 2nd Edition
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, the second edition of the Ganzirri Carnival brought life to Piazza Cutugno, in the lakeside village north of Messina. Rain prevented the traditional parade of floats and masks through the village streets, but the organizers did not give up: the food stalls remained open, serving sausage and local products, and the party continued with masquerade walks, music, and entertainment. In the evening, on the shores of the lake, the grand masquerade ball was held and sold out.
An edition that, despite the adverse weather, confirmed the vitality of this young event in the Municipality of Messina, Sicily.
Programme Ganzirri Carnival 2026
Sunday, February 15, 2026 — Piazza Cutugno
- Afternoon: Opening of food stalls with sausage and local products along the pedestrian area
- Music by DJ Andrea Zanghì
- Performances by groups coordinated by MP Eventi with Maria Savina Proscia
- Entertainment with Saverio Puleo and Spank Animazione
- Artisan exhibitions
- Exhibition of historic buses by Atm with the Fiumanò Brothers and Peppe Fundarò
Evening — Grand masquerade ball by the lake
- Masquerade dance with three competing groups (Mortello, Ganzirri, Faro Superiore)
- Show by performer Nuccio Scibilia with Brazilian music and samba rhythms
- Dance party until late at night (sold out)
Note: due to bad weather, the traditional mask parade could not take place; activities were concentrated on the stalls, entertainment, and the evening ball.
Highlights Ganzirri Carnival 2026
Prices Ganzirri Carnival 2026
Practical information — Ganzirri Carnival
Location
Piazza Cutugno and the streets of the village of Ganzirri, a northern district of Messina (Sicily), overlooking the Strait and Lake Ganzirri.
How to get there
By car from Messina city center, follow the coastal road towards Faro / Capo Peloro (approx. 10-12 km). By bus, the village is served by Atm lines heading towards Ganzirri and Torre Faro. The nearest train station is Messina Centrale.
When
The event takes place during the Carnival period (between February and March, depending on the year).
Costs
Entry to the square is free. The evening masquerade ball and certain activities may require a ticket or reservation.
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Where does it take place — Ganzirri Carnival
Piazza Cutugno, Ganzirri
Piazza Cutugno, 98168 Messina