Nivarata – International Sicilian Granita Festival

Sicilian granita takes center stage in Acireale

In the Baroque heart of Acireale, in the province of Catania, Nivarata celebrates Sicilian granita every year: not just a simple frozen dessert, but an emblem of memory, identity, social connection, and the local economy. For three days, the spectacular Piazza Duomo fills with stalls, aromas, and masters of the gelato arts, turning the historic center of this Etna town into an international showcase of taste.

Organized by Conpait (Confederation of Italian Pastry Chefs) under the direction of master gelato makers Peppe Leotta and Fulvio Massimino, with the support of the Municipality of Acireale, Nivarata has become a staple of the Sicilian food and wine calendar and a benchmark for enthusiasts from all over Italy.

Showcooking, competitions, and international guests

The program alternates between tastings, daily showcooking, competitions, and meetings dedicated to the art of granita. Great names in artisanal gelato take to the stage, while a savory food area offers gourmet menus created by renowned chefs every evening.

The event has a strong international vocation: recent editions have hosted master gelato makers from Japan and South Korea, who engaged in a cultural and gastronomic exchange with the island's traditions. There is also space for the little ones, with workshops for children dedicated to discovering the ancient tradition of granita.

Local excellence

Nivarata is also a celebration of excellent Sicilian raw materials: Bronte green pistachio, Avola almonds, Maletto strawberries, and Etna PGI lemon. These ingredients tell the story of Mount Etna and its land, enhanced by the master gelato makers in their creations.

• Granita tastings in numerous variations and flavors
• Showcooking by the island's master gelato makers and international guests
• Savory food area with evening menus curated by chefs
• Contests and competitions dedicated to the art of gelato
• Workshops for children and family activities

The event also involves students from the "Giovanni Falcone" Hotel Management School in Giarre, who assist with guest hospitality as part of their training and local engagement. In recent years, the Mayor of Acireale has also relaunched the idea of official recognition (a guarantee seal/PDO) for authentic Sicilian granita.