Palazzolo Acreide Carnival
The oldest Carnival in Sicily, featuring allegorical floats, masquerades, and cavati pasta
About Palazzolo Acreide Carnival
The oldest Carnival in Sicily
The Palazzolo Acreide Carnival is widely regarded as the oldest in Sicily and one of the most deeply felt celebrations on the island. It takes place in the heart of Palazzolo Acreide, a charming Baroque village in the Iblei Mountains near Syracuse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside other late-Baroque towns in the Val di Noto. For several days, the narrow streets and squares of the historic center turn into a grand open-air theater.
Origins and tradition
The roots of this festival run deep: according to local lore, the Palazzolo Carnival originated from a procession that once accompanied the feast of the Madonna Odigitria. During this event, masked women wrapped in long cloaks, known as 'ntuppatedde, would break into the procession, causing a stir with dances and pranks. From this ritual of transgression and masking, today's festival has evolved over the centuries, remaining firmly anchored in the community's identity.
Allegorical floats and costumed groups
The heart of the Carnival is the parade of papier-mâché allegorical floats, crafted by local master artisans and accompanied by costumed groups. The floats, the result of months of hard work, parade through the town center starting from Viale Dante Alighieri, filling the village with satire, imagination, and color. The parades are accompanied by live music, dancing, magic shows, cabaret, and activities for children.
The Cavati Festival
A must-attend event is the Cavati Festival, organized by the Pro Loco: traditional cavatieddi al sugo di maiale—a local pasta dish from the Iblei region served with a rich pork ragù—are offered to visitors, perfectly blending street festivities with the region's finest culinary traditions.
A community celebration in the Val di Noto
Organized by the Municipality of Palazzolo Acreide, particularly the Department of Tourism, the Carnival attracts residents and visitors from all over Sicily every year. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the Baroque village, its churches, and its palaces, all within a festive atmosphere that showcases the welcoming spirit of the local community and the authenticity of Sicilian popular tradition.
Palazzolo Acreide Carnival — edition 2026
The 2026 Palazzolo Acreide Carnival took place from February 12th to 17th in the historic center, with a program full of parades, music, and gastronomy.
Float parades
The parades of allegorical floats and costumed groups were held on Saturday the 14th, Sunday the 15th, and Tuesday the 17th of February. The first major parade started on Saturday, February 14th at 4:00 PM from Viale Dante Alighieri, winding through the streets of the center.
Guests and shows
The godmother of the 2026 edition was Taylor Mega, who appeared on the main stage in the square in the evening. The program included live music, magic shows, cabaret, and family entertainment, alongside the traditional Cavati Festival featuring cavatieddi with pork ragù.
Programme Palazzolo Acreide Carnival 2026
- Wednesday, February 12th — Opening of the Carnival and entertainment in the historic center
- Saturday, February 14th — First parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups, starting at 4:00 PM from Viale Dante Alighieri; evening in the square with live music, guest Taylor Mega (10:00 PM)
- Sunday, February 15th — Second parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups, shows, and dancing
- Monday, February 16th — Music and entertainment in the square, Cavati Festival, and food stalls
- Tuesday, February 17th — Final parade of allegorical floats and closing party
Highlights Palazzolo Acreide Carnival 2026
- Papier-mâché allegorical floats by local master artisans
- Godmother of the edition: Taylor Mega
- Cavati Festival with pork ragù organized by the Pro Loco
- Magic shows, cabaret, and live music in the square
Prices Palazzolo Acreide Carnival 2026
Practical information — Palazzolo Acreide Carnival
Getting there
Palazzolo Acreide is located in the Iblei Mountains, in the province of Syracuse. By car, it can be reached from Syracuse (approx. 45 km) and from Catania via the SS124 road. The nearest train station is in Syracuse, from where you can continue by bus or car.
When
The Carnival takes place during the Carnival season, typically in February. The allegorical float parades are held over the weekend and on Shrove Tuesday.
Admission
Parades and public square events are free and held outdoors. Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking in the historic center are recommended.
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Where does it take place — Palazzolo Acreide Carnival
Centro storico