Scicli Carnival — U Carnaluvari ra Stratanova

The Carnival of Scicli's Baroque heart

The Scicli Carnival, known to everyone as 'U Carnaluvari ra Stratanova', is one of the most cherished events in the festive calendar of the municipality of Scicli, in the province of Ragusa, in the far south-east of Sicily. The local dialect name already reveals its soul: Stratanova is what the people of Scicli have called Corso Umberto I for generations, the main artery that runs through the historic center—a UNESCO Late Baroque site of the Val di Noto—which transforms into a grand open-air stage for four days.

A decades-long popular tradition

Now in its many editions, the Scicli Carnival is a festival deeply rooted in the community, organized by the Prismart Association with the involvement of schools, cultural and sports associations, and entire neighborhoods. More than just a show to watch, it is a festival to experience: citizens dress up, build floats, lead parades, and fill the squares in a spirit of collective joy that is the true hallmark of the Iblean Carnival.

What to expect

• Float parades and processions of costumed groups along Corso Umberto I;
• Musical parades, DJ sets, and performances by street artists and street circus acts;
• Traditional games and neighborhood tournaments (tug-of-war, sack races, pignata, and foot-tennis);
• Workshops and entertainment for children, including the little ones' costume parade;
• Awards for the best costumes, the highlight of the closing ceremony;
• Gastronomy with stalls and traditional Iblean dishes.

Why it's worth the trip

Experiencing the Carnival in Scicli means discovering one of the most beautiful Baroque cities in Italy at its most joyful and authentic moment, far from the heavy tourist crowds. Popular satire, the colors of the floats, and the warmth of the people make this festival an unmissable event for those who want to get to know the truest side of Sicily. Admission to all events is free.