Iris and Craftsmanship Festival
The iconic Catania pastry and the All Souls' Market in Pedara, at the foot of Mount Etna
Edition 2026 not confirmed to date
This edition has not been confirmed by the organiser to date. We recommend checking before going.
About Iris Festival
A sweet festival at the foot of Mount Etna
The Iris and Craftsmanship Festival is one of the most cherished events in Pedara, a town nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna in the province of Catania, Sicily. Established in 2003 by Sebastiano Di Stefano, the festival is traditionally held during the All Souls' Day period, spanning late October and early November, and has firmly established itself in the Etna region's event calendar over the years.
The iris, queen of Catanese pastry
The absolute star is the iris, an iconic symbol of Catanese confectionery tradition: a soft, deep-fried dough filled with ricotta cream and available in numerous variations, from chocolate and custard to hazelnut and pistachio. During the festival, master pastry chefs prepare and fry the iris on the spot, right in front of visitors, filling the air with aromas and flavors that draw thousands of food lovers from across the Etna region and the city of Catania every year.
The All Souls' Market and local crafts
Alongside the star pastry, the event hosts the traditional All Souls' Market, an ancient market linked to the November 2nd holiday, when Sicily commemorates the departed with traditional sweets and small gifts for children. Among the stalls at Parco Angelo D'Arrigo, visitors can purchase local handicrafts, delicacies, sweets, and regional gastronomic specialties.
Music, folklore, and village atmosphere
The festival is about more than just taste: the atmosphere is enlivened by musical performances in the square and the evocative parade of the Bersaglieri brass band, which marches through the town streets. Areas dedicated to food and drink, crafts, and games for children make the event suitable for the whole family, set against the backdrop of a typical Etna-style popular celebration.
An event supported by the Municipality of Pedara
Organized with the support of the Municipality of Pedara, the Iris and Craftsmanship Festival is an opportunity to rediscover the gastronomic and artisanal traditions of this Etna town, set among the villages at the foot of the volcano. Admission is free, and the event typically runs from morning until late evening.
Iris Festival — edition 2026
The dates for the 2026 edition of the Iris and Craftsmanship Festival in Pedara have not yet been officially announced. Based on previous years, the event is expected to take place between late October and early November, coinciding with the All Souls' Day commemoration, at Parco Angelo D'Arrigo. We are awaiting confirmation on dates, times, and the program from the organizers and the Municipality of Pedara.
Prices Iris Festival 2026
Practical information — Iris Festival
Location
Parco Angelo D'Arrigo, Via Don Giovanni Bosco, Pedara (CT), Sicily.
How to reach us
Pedara is located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Etna, about 15 km from Catania. By car, it can be reached via the SP10 or SS121 roads; Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is approximately 25 km away. Bus lines connecting to the Etna towns are available from the center of Catania.
Admission and hours
Free admission. The event is usually open from morning until late evening (approximate hours 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM).
Period
Held between late October and early November, during the All Souls' Day commemoration period.
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Where does it take place — Iris Festival
Parco Angelo D'Arrigo
Via Don Giovanni Bosco, 95030 Pedara