Maletto Carnival
Float parades and masked groups along Via Umberto, on the slopes of Mount Etna
About Maletto Carnival
The Carnival returns to Maletto
For over twenty years, the Carnival in Maletto, in the Province of Catania, remained nothing more than a memory. In 2024, the municipal administration led by Mayor Giuseppe Capizzi decided to bring it back to life, reconnecting with its roots when the festivities took place right along Via Umberto, in the Logge area. The public response was immediate, and today the Maletto Carnival is one of the most anticipated winter events in this small Etna village.
Allegorical floats and masked groups
The heart of the festival is the parade of allegorical floats, accompanied by masked groups and support parades that wind through the town center. Each float is presented to the public over the course of the event, culminating in a final awards ceremony for the most beautiful and significant entries. It is the result of months of hard work by local groups and associations, showcasing satire, imagination, and craftsmanship.
A festival for everyone
The event is more than just parades: it kicks off in the morning with a masquerade ball for school children and continues with entertainment, music, and DJ sets in the town squares. The atmosphere is that of a classic Sicilian village festival, where the entire community gathers in the streets and neighboring towns look to Maletto as part of what the mayor has called "the era of the floats."
Maletto and Mount Etna
Maletto is the highest municipality on the Etna side, known for its strawberries and the landscapes that open up toward the volcano. Visiting the village during the Carnival means experiencing the most authentic side of Sicily, where popular traditions are still a community affair rather than just a spectacle.
Maletto Carnival — edition 2026
Maletto Carnival 2026
The 2026 edition is spread over Thursday, February 12, Saturday, February 14, Sunday, February 15, and Tuesday, February 17, the dates of the 2026 Italian Carnival. As per recent tradition, the parades of allegorical floats and masked groups will animate Via Umberto and the center of Maletto, with masquerade balls for children and the awarding of the floats on the final day.
The detailed day-by-day program will be published by the Municipality of Maletto in the weeks leading up to the event. It is recommended to check the official municipal channels for updated times of the individual parades.
Programme Maletto Carnival 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition, including the times for individual parades, will be announced by the Municipality of Maletto in the weeks before the Carnival. The usual schedule includes a children's masquerade ball in the morning, parades of allegorical floats and masked groups along Via Umberto on the four days (February 12, 14, 15, and 17), and the final awards ceremony on Tuesday, February 17.
Highlights Maletto Carnival 2026
- Parades of allegorical floats along Via Umberto
- Masked groups and support parades
- Children's masquerade ball
- Awards for the most beautiful floats
Prices Maletto Carnival 2026
Practical information — Maletto Carnival
Getting there
Maletto is located on the northwestern slopes of Mount Etna, in the Province of Catania. By car, it can be reached via the SS120 (exit for Maletto) or from the Bronte and Randazzo area. The train station is served by the Ferrovia Circumetnea line. The nearest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa, approximately 70 km away.
Location
The parades wind along Via Umberto and through the Logge area in the town center. Entertainment and award ceremonies are held in the town squares.
Costs
Participation in the parades and square entertainment is free. For the updated program, it is recommended to check the official website of the Municipality of Maletto.
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Where does it take place — Maletto Carnival
Via Umberto
Via Umberto, 95035 Maletto