Pro Loco Misilmeri Christmas – The Village Saturdays / E Nasciu u Bammineddu

Christmas in Misilmeri by Pro Loco

In the heart of winter, the town of Misilmeri, in the province of Palermo, gets into the festive spirit thanks to the Christmas calendar promoted by the local Pro Loco. For several weeks in December, the historic center transforms into a sprawling village filled with markets, concerts, workshops, and shows designed for families, children, and visitors. The event is entirely free and aims to celebrate Sicilian folk traditions and the identity of the Misilmeri community.

The Village Saturdays (Menzel el Emir)

The most anticipated event is "The Village Saturdays (Menzel el Emir)", held on the Saturdays of December in Piazza Comitato. The name recalls the ancient Arabic name of the village, Menzel el Emir, meaning "hamlet of the emir", from which the name Misilmeri itself derives. The characteristic stalls, set up and managed by Pro Loco volunteers, host local artisans and small producers showcasing their creations and typical regional products.

• Craft and local produce markets
• Bagpipers and live music
• Vinyl DJ sets and concerts
• Children's workshops and theater
• Contemporary circus performances

E nasciu u Bammineddu

Alongside the markets, the folk Christmas music festival "E nasciu u Bammineddu" brings the great Sicilian musical tradition into the town's churches. Past editions have featured artists such as Mario Incudine, a nationally renowned singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, with his show of Sicilian pastoral songs and carols, the Giampiero Amato ensemble with the wandering sounds of the bagpipes through the streets, and the group A Nova Orquestra. The concerts are hosted in places of worship such as the churches of San Giovanni Battista, San Gaetano, Santa Rosalia, and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

A community celebration

The Christmas festivities organized by the Pro Loco have become a symbol of Misilmeri's identity: an opportunity to rediscover traditional crafts, local gastronomy, and folk music in an atmosphere of participation that involves associations, parishes, and citizens. For those visiting the province of Palermo during the holidays, it represents an authentic way to immerse oneself in the Sicilian Christmas spirit.