Italo-Scalettese Grand Carnival

A carnival that unites two communities

The Italo-Scalettese Grand Carnival is one of the most deeply rooted carnival traditions along the Ionian strip of the Metropolitan City of Messina, in Sicily. The event stems from the union of two neighboring towns, Scaletta Zanclea and Itala, which pool their energy and creativity every year to bring a shared popular festival to life. Celebrating its 46th edition in 2025, the Carnival is organized by the Pro Loco of Scaletta Zanclea in synergy with the Pro Loco Giovanello of Itala and under the patronage of both municipal administrations.

The grand parade of allegorical floats

The heart of the event is the grand parade of allegorical floats that winds along Via Roma, starting from the territory of Itala and continuing to Scaletta Zanclea, ending in Piazza Alcide de Gasperi. Along the route, colorful floats, costumed groups of all ages, and plenty of music take center stage. An essential element of the parade is the comic band "A Banda i ll'umbrillara", a folk group that accompanies the procession with joy and irony, having become a true symbol of the local Carnival.

The Golden Mask and the little ones

Alongside the parade, the program reserves a special space for children. The "Golden Mask" competition, hosted at the multifunctional cultural center of Scaletta, awards the most beautiful costumes divided into age categories (Baby and Junior). There is no shortage of events dedicated to children, such as "In the Magical World of Masks," organized by the Pro Loco Giovanello of Itala, which turns Fat Thursday into a day of games, confetti, and masks.

A local tradition

The Italo-Scalettese Grand Carnival represents much more than a simple parade: it is an opportunity for encounter that strengthens the bond between Scaletta Zanclea and Itala, two small towns overlooking the Ionian Sea. The preparation of the floats involves associations, shopkeepers, and volunteers for weeks, in a climate of participation that is an integral part of the identity of this corner of Sicily. For those visiting the province of Messina during the carnival period, it is an authentic opportunity to experience local folklore far from the major tourist circuits.