Oricense Carnival

The Oricense Carnival, the beating heart of winter in Tortorici

The Oricense Carnival is one of the most beloved events in the municipality of Tortorici, a village in the Nebrodi mountains set in a scenic valley in the province of Messina, Sicily. Every year, during the Carnival season, the narrow streets of the historic centre transform into an open-air stage filled with colour, music, dance, and satire, drawing residents and visitors from across the Nebrodi region.

The papier-mâché floats

The true symbols of the festival are the papier-mâché floats, authentic masterpieces of popular ingenuity built with passion by members of the town's districts. Tortorici is a widespread municipality, animated by numerous districts that engage in a friendly, creative rivalry: each group spends months working on their float, shaping giant figures, masks, and scenes of social and political satire. During the parades, the floats travel through the town amidst confetti and applause, accompanied by costumed groups, music, and dancing.

A tradition organized by the float-makers

The event is organized by the Federazione Carristi Carnevale Oricense, which brings together young people and master float-makers united by their desire to preserve this tradition. Their voluntary commitment is what allows the town to offer a well-curated, colourful spectacle every year, deeply rooted in the identity of Tortorici—a name that traces back to the legendary princess Orice, linked to the village's origins.

Atmosphere and festivities

Beyond the float parades, the Oricense Carnival offers a rich programme of activities: masks and costumed groups, music and dancing in the streets and squares, and food stalls serving local specialities. Admission to the parades is free, and the event retains an authentically popular and family-friendly atmosphere.

• Where: Historic centre of Tortorici (ME), Nebrodi mountains
• When: During the Carnival season, in February
• Highlights: The papier-mâché floats of the local districts
• Admission: Free

In recent years, the traditional winter edition has been joined by a summer version, the Oricense Summer Carnival, a sign of the vitality of an event capable of renewing itself while remaining faithful to its roots.