San Cristoforo Carnival — Waking Up the Neighborhoods

A Carnival that awakens the neighborhood

The San Cristoforo Carnival — Waking Up the Neighborhoods makes its debut in Catania with its first edition, scheduled for February 17, 2026, in the heart of one of the city's most iconic and popular districts. The initiative stems from the educational efforts of the Salette Oratory and the local Salesian community, aiming to transform streets often marked by social challenges into vibrant spaces of celebration, sharing, and participation.

The Acireale allegorical float

The highlight of the event is the presence, for the first time in the district's history, of a grand papier-mâché allegorical float from Acireale, the city synonymous with the Sicilian Carnival. This papier-mâché giant will travel through the streets of San Cristoforo accompanied by the Jamboree Events group, who will energize the parade with dance choreography and infectious rhythms, bringing the art of the Acireale tradition beyond its usual boundaries.

Schools take center stage

The day begins in the morning with the gathering and costume parade of local school children: students will march in masks, making the younger generation the true protagonists of the event. This choice blends celebration with an educational journey, continuing the district's previous experiences like the "Sveglia Quartiere" summer camp and the Saint Agatha festivities.

A festival for the entire community

Promoted by Father Orazio Moschetti, head of the Salette Oratory, and Riccardo Pellegrino, Vice President of the City Council, together with the Salesian community, the San Cristoforo Carnival stands as an act of faith in the neighborhood's future. The event is free and open to all, combining social, cultural, and entertainment dimensions.

Catania and the Carnival tradition

Integrated into the rich landscape of the Carnival in the province of Catania and Sicily — where historic events like those in Acireale and Misterbianco stand out — the San Cristoforo appointment adds a fresh, popular voice, deeply rooted in the local area and capable of engaging the entire district of the Municipality of Catania.