Menenino Carnival

The Mineo Carnival

The Menenino Carnival is the annual carnival celebration held in the Municipality of Mineo, an ancient village in the Calatino area perched on the hills of the province of Catania, in Sicily. The adjective "menenino" derives from the name of the local inhabitants, the "menenini," and defines a festival deeply rooted in the town's identity, brought to life each year by the participation of local associations, schools, and families.

Parades and Masks in Piazza Buglio

The heart of the festivities is Piazza Buglio, the hub of town life, which transforms into a large open-air stage during the Carnival days. Masked groups gather along Viale della Rimembranza, starting a parade that passes through Largo Porta Adinolfo before reaching the main square. Here, group dances, the traditional carnival carousel, and performances by the masked groups take place, followed by music and evening entertainment.

A Celebration for the Whole Community

The Menenino Carnival is a popular, free event organized by the Municipality of Mineo. Alongside the days dedicated to the parades, the program includes special activities for children, with a day designed for local schools featuring entertainment, group games, and treats. The evenings culminate in the awarding of prizes for the best groups and costumes, in a lighthearted atmosphere that involves the entire village.

Mineo, a Village in the Calatino Area

Located in the province of Catania, Mineo is one of the most charming villages in the Calatino, a land of agricultural and popular traditions. The Carnival represents one of the most heartfelt moments of the year, an opportunity to rediscover the streets of the historic center and experience the conviviality typical of inland Sicilian towns. Every year, the festival renews its invitation to all citizens and visitors to join in days of fun and merriment.