Sicilian Carnival of Adrano

Carnival at the foot of Mount Etna

In Adrano, a town in the province of Catania nestled on the southwestern slopes of Mount Etna, Carnival is one of the most deep-rooted popular traditions. For several days, the historic center transforms into a large open-air stage: allegorical floats, masked groups, school parades, and evening parties follow one another in an atmosphere that involves the entire community, from children to the elderly.

Traditional masks

The heart of the Adrano Carnival lies in its typical masks, which parade through the town streets accompanied by costumed groups:

• U Baruni — the fallen nobleman, wearing elegant yet worn-out clothes, a symbol of the transience of power;
• A Vecchia — the elderly female figure who embodies popular wisdom;
• U Zu Paulu — the cunning farmer, a storyteller of amusing anecdotes.

Alongside them, the parade of allegorical floats is one of the most anticipated moments: papier-mâché creations satirizing current events and public figures, the result of months of work by local groups.

Satire, schools, and music

The first days are dedicated to school parades, with costumes created by students in creative workshops. Throughout the event, the program features the Children's Grand Ball with entertainment and dance masters, the Senior Grand Ball, evening DJ sets in the square, and live concerts. In recent editions, the Adrano stage has hosted nationally renowned artists, reflecting the growth of an event that saw the return of allegorical floats after many years.

Carnival flavors

During the festivities, the streets fill with stalls selling traditional Sicilian sweets: chiacchiere, zeppole, sfinci, cassatelle, and pignolata, accompanied by Etna wines. The fried sweet festivals have become a fixed appointment in the program.

Origins

The roots of the festival date back to the Middle Ages, when the local population celebrated the final period of revelry before Lent with masks, dances, and banquets. Over time, the Adrano Carnival has incorporated elements of Sicilian culture, becoming one of the most representative events in the Etna region, in Sicily.