Scjalati Autumn Fest

The Scjalati Autumn Fest, celebrating autumn in the Nebrodi

The Scjalati Autumn Fest is the food and wine event that brings Galati Mamertino to life every November. Located in the heart of Sicily, this mountain village is part of the Nebrodi Park in the province of Messina. For an entire weekend, the town's historic center transforms into a vibrant autumn village, where traditional flavors, music, and the warm hospitality of the locals attract visitors from across the province and the rest of the island.

A name that tells a story

The festival's unique name comes from the local dialect: "Scjalati" combines the Sicilian term scialati (to feast, to eat with gusto and abundance) and Jalati, the local dialect name for their town, Galati. It is a play on words that perfectly captures the spirit of the event: gathering together around good food and genuine mountain products.

The flavors of the Nebrodi autumn

The true star of the show is the region's gastronomic heritage. Stalls and tasting points dedicated to seasonal local products line the streets and squares of the center:

• Chestnuts, mushrooms, and hazelnuts gathered in the Nebrodi woods;
• Olives, extra virgin olive oil, and fava beans from farming traditions;
• Honey, new wine, and craft beer from the local area;
• Nebrodi black pig, a prized local specialty;
• Crespelle and other local culinary delicacies.

Alongside the tastings, there are craft stalls featuring local artisans and hobbyists, as well as street food options inspired by Nebrodi cuisine.

Music, folklore, and entertainment

Evenings at the Scjalati Autumn Fest are filled with live music: folk groups, bands, and DJ sets liven up the town squares, alternating traditional songs and dances with festive moments for all ages. There is also entertainment for children and roving performances that engage families and curious visitors alike.

Between history and nature

The festival is also the perfect opportunity to explore the village and its surroundings. The program includes guided tours of the historic center, its churches, and the landmarks of Galati Mamertino, as well as nature excursions in the Nebrodi Park led by expert guides, allowing visitors to discover mountain landscapes and the most picturesque corners of the territory.

A community and youth-led event

The Scjalati Autumn Fest is organized by the Municipality of Galati Mamertino in collaboration with the youth association NextGen Galatese, with the support of the Regional Department of Tourism, Sport, and Entertainment. Since its inception in 2023, the event has quickly become a key autumn fixture in the Nebrodi area, showcasing local produce and the unique identity of this corner of Sicily.