Nicosia Carnival

The Nicosia Carnival

The Nicosia Carnival is one of the most cherished events of the carnival season in the heart of inland Sicily. It takes place in the evocative historic center of Nicosia, an ancient village in the Nebrodi mountains in the province of Enna, where cobblestone streets and monumental squares serve as the stage for parades, costumed groups, and plenty of music. For a few days, the town transforms into a widespread celebration that engages all generations, from children to adults, in an atmosphere of participation and fun.

The Pëguriero and the Turk

The heart of the Nicosian carnival tradition is the ancient 'u Pëguriero e u Turco' mask (The Shepherd and the Turk), whose historical origins are linked to the arrival of the Turks in Nicosia. The performance stages a historic role reversal between the nobility and the peasants, preserving a folk memory that makes this Carnival unique. It is an identity heritage that, along with the masks and costumes, tells the story of the community's culture and roots.

Parades and Costumed Groups

The program revolves around two major parades, one on Sunday and one on Shrove Tuesday, with processions winding through the town to reach the central Piazza Garibaldi, which is illuminated for the occasion. Competing for prizes are costumed groups, individual masks, and pairs, who present original themes, choreographies, group dances, and creative performances. Over the years, traditional allegorical floats have given way to performances that highlight the participants' imagination and attention to detail, with awards for the winning groups at the end of the parade.

A Celebration for Everyone

Shrove Thursday is dedicated to the little ones, with a day of costumes, games, and shows for children in masks. Between parades, there is no shortage of songs, dances, and music to liven up the evenings, while the culinary tradition offers typical seasonal sweets, such as braccialetti nicosiani—ring-shaped fritters prepared during Carnival and Christmas. Promoted by the Municipality of Nicosia, the Carnival is an opportunity to rediscover the village and experience the conviviality of a community in the province of Enna, in the heart of Sicily.