Licata Carnival
Papier-mâché floats, masquerade groups, and music in the heart of Licata
About Licata Carnival
The Licata Carnival, a papier-mâché celebration on the Agrigento coast
The Licata Carnival is the major carnival festival in Licata, a seaside town in the province of Agrigento, Sicily. For a few days, the streets of the center transform into a colorful open-air stage, animated by papier-mâché floats, masquerade groups, dance schools, music, and entertainment for all ages. The parades wind through the heart of the city, from Corso Garibaldi to Piazza Progresso, the true hub of the festivities.
A tradition born in 1986
The Licata Carnival has its roots in 1986 and has grown over the years to become one of the most anticipated events on the city's calendar. The allegorical floats, authentic works of art crafted by local artisans from papier-mâché, playfully reinterpret characters from pop culture, cinema, and cartoons. Each edition features new themes, the result of months of work in workshops where craftsmen and volunteers model the structures that will parade through the streets.
Parades and festive atmosphere
The program spans several days, featuring afternoon and evening float parades, school processions, children's entertainment, and masked dance parties. Families, groups of friends, and tourists fill the route, surrounded by confetti, streamers, dancing, and music. In the evening, Piazza Progresso hosts parties with DJ sets and musical guests, keeping the fun going until late at night.
A signature Carnival
Organized by the Municipality of Licata with the support of local associations and cooperatives, the Licata Carnival represents a moment of strong community cohesion. It is a perfect opportunity to discover Licata off-season, stroll through the historic center overlooking the sea, and experience one of the most vibrant carnival traditions in the Agrigento area.
- Where: Historic center of Licata (AG), Corso Garibaldi and Piazza Progresso
- When: During the Carnival period (February/March)
- What: Papier-mâché floats, masquerade groups, DJ sets, entertainment
- Admission: Free public event
Licata Carnival — edition 2026
Licata Carnival 2026: 40 years of celebration
The 2026 edition marked an important milestone: 40 years of Carnival in Licata (1986-2026). Originally scheduled earlier, the celebrations were postponed by one week due to a weather alert and took place from February 21 to 24, 2026.
Among the allegorical floats starring in the parades, subjects inspired by The Simpsons and Alice in Wonderland stood out, while the masquerade groups featured reinterpretations of The Addams Family and The Flintstones. The parades crossed the center, from Corso Garibaldi to Piazza Progresso, with the Thomas the Tank Engine train and entertainment for the little ones.
In the evening, Piazza Progresso hosted parties with DJ sets, a presenter, and musical guests, extending the fun until late at night. The event, organized by the Municipal Administration with the support of social cooperatives, saw a high level of public participation.
Programme Licata Carnival 2026
2026 Program (February 21-24)
- Parades of papier-mâché floats in the historic center, from Corso Garibaldi to Piazza Progresso
- School parades and children's entertainment with the Thomas the Tank Engine train, from Carmine to Piazza Progresso
- Masquerade groups (including The Addams Family and The Flintstones) and floats inspired by The Simpsons and Alice in Wonderland
- Evening parties in Piazza Progresso with DJ sets, a presenter, and musical guests
Parade times were subject to change; it was recommended to check the official organization channels.
Highlights Licata Carnival 2026
- 40th edition: 40 years of Carnival in Licata (1986-2026)
- Papier-mâché floats inspired by The Simpsons and Alice in Wonderland
- Grand finale and evening parties in Piazza Progresso with DJ sets
Prices Licata Carnival 2026
Practical information — Licata Carnival
How to get there
Licata is located on the southern coast of Sicily, in the province of Agrigento. By car, it can be reached via the SS115, which connects Gela to Agrigento. The Licata train station is served by the regional line; the nearest airports are Comiso and Catania-Fontanarossa.
Practical tips
The parades are concentrated in the historic center, along Corso Garibaldi and in Piazza Progresso: it is advisable to arrive early and park in areas outside the center, which is often closed to traffic during events. The event is public and free to attend. Always check for any schedule changes on the official channels of the Municipality and the organizers, as the program may be subject to modifications due to weather conditions.
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Where does it take place — Licata Carnival
Centro storico di Licata