Ragalna Carnival
A parade of allegorical floats and masked groups on the slopes of Mount Etna
About Ragalna Carnival
The Ragalna Carnival
The Ragalna Carnival is the most cherished local event in this small town on the southern slopes of Mount Etna, in the province of Catania. At an altitude of about 700 meters, Ragalna pauses its quiet village life for a day, transforming into a grand outdoor stage where allegorical floats, masks, and music fill the streets with a festive and engaging atmosphere for all ages.
The Allegorical Float Parade
The heart of the event is the parade of allegorical floats and masked groups, which winds through the town's main streets. The procession follows a route covering the local districts and neighborhoods — from Villaggio Santa Famiglia to Via Paternò, Via Pedalino, Via Rosario, and Via Mongibello — before concluding in Piazza Santa Barbara, the town's main square, where group performances, music, and the awards ceremony for the best floats and costumes take place.
A Community Celebration
Beyond the parade, the Ragalna Carnival features shows, dancing, and tastings of local products. The most convivial moment is the traditional maccheronata, a large pasta feast offered to the public that closes the day and brings residents and visitors together around the table. It is an authentic village festival, organized by the Municipality of Ragalna with the involvement of local associations and schools, making it a participatory event for the entire community.
Ragalna, an Etna Village
Ragalna is one of the youngest municipalities in the Metropolitan City of Catania. A district of Paternò until 1985, it is now an independent village deeply connected to the volcano and the figure of Saint Barbara, whose relics — according to tradition — miraculously halted the lava flow of the 1780 eruption. In this context of nature, tradition, and devotion, the Carnival represents one of the most significant collective celebrations of the year in Sicily.
Ragalna Carnival — edition 2026
Ragalna Carnival 2026
The 2026 edition of the Ragalna Carnival was scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, on Shrove Tuesday. The program included a parade of allegorical floats and masked groups through the town streets, from Villaggio Santa Famiglia to Piazza Santa Barbara, with music, awards, and a final maccheronata.
Due to adverse weather conditions, the street parade was cancelled and the events were moved to the Sports Hall (Palazzetto dello Sport) from 6:30 PM until midnight, featuring performances by various masked groups, the awards ceremony, and the traditional maccheronata offered to attendees.
Programme Ragalna Carnival 2026
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 — Shrove Tuesday
Original program (parade, later cancelled due to bad weather):
- 4:00 PM — Gathering and parade of allegorical floats and masked groups through the town streets (Villaggio Santa Famiglia, Via Paternò, Via Pedalino, Via Rosario, Via Mongibello)
- Arrival at Piazza Santa Barbara with music, awards, and maccheronata
Actual program (moved to the Sports Hall due to bad weather):
- 6:30 PM — 12:00 AM — Performances by various masked groups, awards ceremony, and traditional maccheronata at the Sports Hall
Highlights Ragalna Carnival 2026
Prices Ragalna Carnival 2026
Practical information — Ragalna Carnival
When
The Ragalna Carnival takes place during the Carnival period, typically over the weekend and on Shrove Tuesday (February or early March).
Where
Along the streets of Ragalna town center (CT), with the finish and awards ceremony in Piazza Santa Barbara. In case of bad weather, events are moved to the Sports Hall (Palazzetto dello Sport).
How to get there
Ragalna can be reached by car from Catania (about 30 km) by driving up the southern slope of Mount Etna via Paternò or Nicolosi. It is not directly served by rail: the nearest station is Catania, from where you can continue by bus or car.
Prices
Admission and participation in the parade are free.
Tips
Always check the updated program and any changes due to bad weather on the official channels of the Municipality of Ragalna.
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Where does it take place — Ragalna Carnival
Vie del paese e Piazza Santa Barbara