Mechané Festival

A festival that tells the story of Belpasso and its Etnean soul

The Mechané Festival is one of the most cherished summer cultural events in Belpasso, a town in the province of Catania nestled on the southwestern slopes of Mount Etna. Born to showcase the artistic and devotional heritage linked to the famous Carri di Santa Lucia, the festival has grown edition after edition into a multidisciplinary event. Over nearly two weeks, it features theater, folk music, visual arts, and moments of shared reflection.

The name and spirit of the event

The term mechané refers to the ancient Greek theatrical device used to make gods appear on stage: a perfect metaphor for a festival that aims to reveal the hidden beauty of the Etna region. Artistically directed by Gianni De Luca and promoted by the Fondazione Carri di Santa Lucia in collaboration with the Belpasso Pro Loco, the festival is held under the patronage of the Municipality of Belpasso, the Sicilian Regional Assembly, and the Regional Department of Tourism, Sport, and Entertainment.

What to experience during the festival

• Theater — original performances inspired by Sicilian tradition and language, staged in the courtyards and arenas of the historic center.
• Folk music — concerts by the Mechané Festival Popular Orchestra, featuring songs and melodies from the Sicilian and Mediterranean traditions.
• Art exhibitions — painting and drawing displays hosted in various city venues.
• Culture and memory — book presentations, historical-artistic tours, and the Gran Galà delle Cantate, featuring the presentation of the Mechané Culture Award.
• The Carri di Santa Lucia — the spectacular "spettacolazioni" (performances) of the devotional floats from the local districts, the true beating heart of Belpasso's identity.

Festival venues

The festival unfolds across the Arena Caudullo, the main stage for the evening events, as well as the Cortile Russo Giusti, Giardino Martoglio, the Villa Comunale, the evocative Ruderi di Malpasso, and Piazza Sant'Antonio, where the festival traditionally concludes with the performance of the Carro di Santa Lucia. It is a journey through art and devotion that allows visitors to discover Belpasso and the entire Etna region of eastern Sicily.