Italo-Scalettese Carnival (Riviera Carnival)

The Italo-Scalettese Carnival

The Italo-Scalettese Carnival, also known as the Riviera Carnival, is a historic event that brings life to the towns of Itala and Scaletta Zanclea every winter. These two small centers are located on the Ionian Riviera in the province of Messina, Sicily. The festival was born from the synergy between the two communities, which have always been linked by a shared geography and history. It represents one of the most deep-rooted carnival traditions in the Messina area, boasting over forty years of history.

A Tradition Shared by Two Towns

What makes this Carnival special is its inter-municipal nature: the organization is managed jointly by the Pro Loco associations and the administrations of Itala and Scaletta Zanclea, in collaboration with the Department of Sport, Tourism and Entertainment, local associations, schools, and parishes. It is a collective effort involving volunteers of all ages, making the Carnival an authentic moment of popular celebration for the entire Riviera.

The Grand Parade along Via Roma

The heart of the event is the parade of masked groups and allegorical floats, which travels along the central Via Roma, starting in Itala and continuing toward Scaletta Zanclea, concluding in Piazza Alcide De Gasperi. Along the route, colorful masks, choreography, costumed groups, and special guests alternate, including, in the past, comic bands and animation groups that have made the festival atmosphere even more vibrant.

Focus on the Little Ones

Ample space is dedicated to children, the true stars of the Riviera Carnival. Among the most anticipated events is the 'Golden Mask' competition, divided into Baby and Junior categories, which rewards the most original children's costumes, as well as initiatives like 'In the Magical World of Masks', designed to involve local schools and families.

Music, Dancing, and Local Gastronomy

Beyond the parades, the program is enriched with dance evenings, masquerade balls, music, and social gatherings. Traditional specialties are always present, with the essential maccheronate (pasta feasts), carnival chiacchiere (pastries), and wine, which accompany the festive evenings in the squares and local venues of the two towns.

An Experience to Live on the Ionian Riviera

For those visiting the province of Messina during the Carnival period, the Italo-Scalettese Carnival offers the chance to discover a genuine and participatory tradition, far from the major tourist flows but rich in warmth and color. Between Itala and Scaletta Zanclea, the festival unites local identity, fun, and hospitality in a charming corner of the Sicilian Ionian coast.