Gratteri by Night

A night of wonder in the heart of the Madonie

Gratteri by Night is the summer festival that has made the small village of Gratteri famous. Located in the province of Palermo and nestled within the Madonie Park, it overlooks the spectacular Gulf of Cefalù. For one night in August, the medieval historic center turns off its electric lights and glows with candlelight: visitors follow a map through the cobblestone alleys, wandering from square to square and discovering a village suspended in time.

A candlelit path of art and tradition

The charm of the event lies in its guided night-walk format. The village alleys come alive with art installations, photography exhibitions, lace and embroidery displays, the traditional Sicilian cart, and spaces dedicated to culture and youth creativity. The route touches the most evocative spots in the village: the Church of San Giacomo, the Church of San Sebastiano, Piazza Scala, Piazza Mulinello, the Cortile Orologio, and Corso Umberto I, where the festivities reach their peak.

Live music and performances

The evening's soundtrack accompanies visitors from sunset until late at night. Various stages scattered throughout the village host concerts, acoustic groups, rock bands, and DJ sets, while the alleys come alive with physical theater, fire dancing, bubble shows, and comedy acts. The spirit of the event is to blend music, surprises, and humor to delight both adults and children.

The flavors of Gratteri

An essential part of the experience is the gastronomy. Along the route and at the refreshment points in Piazza Mulinello and Corso Umberto I, you can taste local products: from fried vastedda to cucchia, a traditional village dessert, and other Madonie culinary specialties. It is a perfect opportunity to discover the authenticity of inland Sicily, defined by genuine flavors and warm hospitality.

A community project

Gratteri by Night is born from the collaboration between various local associations—Webvox, the Youth Council, Pro Loco, Libera Baronia, Auser Gratteri, and Archeoclub—with the support of the Municipality of Gratteri and co-financing from the Sicilian Region. Since its first edition in 2022, the event has grown to become one of the most anticipated summer appointments in the Madonie, attracting visitors from all over Sicily.