Palagonia Carnival

The Palagonia Carnival

The Palagonia Carnival is one of the most heartfelt and well-attended events in the festive calendar of Palagonia, a town in the province of Catania famous for its blood orange cultivation, located in the heart of the Catania Plain in Sicily. For a few days in February, the town transforms into a grand open-air stage, where costumes, colours, and music accompany a celebration that unites the entire community.

Allegorical floats and masks

The heart of the event lies in the parades of allegorical floats, created by local groups and accompanied by performances from masked groups, which travel along the town's main street, filling it with colour and joy. The floats, the result of months of work by craftsmen and volunteers, use irony to explore current events, fairy tales, and fantasy in a creative competition that culminates in the final awards ceremony.

A festival for children and schools

The Palagonia Carnival is a festival particularly loved by the little ones: it is often the school pupils who kick off the festivities with the children's costume parade, full of enthusiasm and wholesome fun. Shows, entertainment, confetti, and streamers make these days an unmissable appointment for local families.

Music and shows in the square

The evenings come alive with musical performances, live music, and DJ sets in Piazza Garibaldi, the true nerve centre of the festival, where evening events and the awards ceremony for the most successful floats and masked groups are held. The engaging atmosphere turns the centre of Palagonia into a large meeting place that attracts visitors from neighbouring towns as well.

A local tradition

Organised by the Municipality of Palagonia, the Palagonia Carnival is an annual recurring event that celebrates the popular traditions and community spirit of this corner of the Etna province. Between folklore, creativity, and conviviality, it represents one of the most vibrant opportunities to discover the most authentic and festive side of Palagonia.