Taormina Carnival
Floats, masks, and tradition along Corso Umberto
About Taormina Carnival
Carnival in the Pearl of the Ionian Sea
The Taormina Carnival is one of the most anticipated winter events in the municipality of Taormina, located in the province of Messina, in the heart of Sicily. Every year, between late February and early March, the famous Corso Umberto and the historic town squares turn into a grand open-air stage, where allegorical floats, costumed groups, and lively choreography color the atmosphere of one of the Mediterranean's most iconic tourist destinations.
A Deeply Rooted Tradition
The origins of the Sicilian Carnival are steeped in ancient folk traditions, featuring masks like the brigante (brigand) and the cavalacciu, which have enlivened the island since the 17th century. In Taormina, this legacy is renewed annually thanks to the passion of local artisans who craft spectacular, highly detailed allegorical floats. The highlight is the float parade along Corso Umberto, traditionally held on Carnival Sunday and Shrove Tuesday.
A Program for the Whole Family
The parade is surrounded by a rich calendar of events designed to entertain both adults and children:
- Theater workshops and creative activities for children at parish centers and the municipal delegations of Trappitello and Mazzeo;
- Entertainment with games, dancing, and inflatables in the local squares;
- Musical performances, concerts, and festivities in Piazza IX Aprile and the surrounding hamlets;
- Masks and costumed groups adding color to the streets of the historic center.
Taormina in Celebration
Overlooking the Ionian Sea and dominated by its famous Ancient Theatre, Taormina provides a unique backdrop for Carnival festivities. The events are free and open to everyone, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience one of the most cherished traditions of the Messina coast together. With confetti, traditional sweets, and music, the Taormina Carnival confirms its role as a community celebration that blends spectacle, folklore, and Sicilian identity.
Taormina Carnival — edition 2026
Taormina Carnival 2026: Solidarity and Community
The 2026 edition of the Taormina Carnival was marked by an exceptional decision. The Taormina Foundation, together with the municipal administration and the float organizers, decided to suspend the traditional parade on Corso Umberto as a sign of respect and solidarity with the community affected by Cyclone Harry, which caused significant damage to families and businesses in the area, particularly in Mazzeo, Mazzarò, and Isola Bella.
Confirmed Activities
Despite the cancellation of the parade, entertainment for children was confirmed:
- Thursday, February 12, 3:30 PM - Piazza IX Aprile;
- Saturday, February 14, 10:00 AM - Trappitello;
- Monday, February 16, 3:30 PM - Trappitello;
- Tuesday, February 17, 3:00 PM - Piazza IX Aprile.
A Solidarity Event in Mazzeo
On Sunday, February 15, replacing the parade, a symbolic event was held in Mazzeo under the motto "Together for Mazzeo and the Taormina coast: united in resilience, together for rebirth," featuring music and a fundraiser managed by the local parish and committee. As the president of the Taormina Foundation explained, the suspension did not mean giving up the spirit of community, but rather transforming it into concrete solidarity.
Programme Taormina Carnival 2026
2026 Program (Reduced Format)
- Thursday, February 12, 3:30 PM - Children's entertainment, Piazza IX Aprile;
- Saturday, February 14, 10:00 AM - Children's entertainment, Trappitello;
- Sunday, February 15 - Solidarity event in Mazzeo "Together for Mazzeo and the Taormina coast";
- Monday, February 16, 3:30 PM - Children's entertainment, Trappitello;
- Tuesday, February 17, 3:00 PM - Children's entertainment, Piazza IX Aprile.
The traditional allegorical float parade on Corso Umberto was suspended.
Highlights Taormina Carnival 2026
Prices Taormina Carnival 2026
Practical information — Taormina Carnival
Getting There
By car: A18 Messina-Catania motorway, take the Taormina exit, then follow the road up to the historic center. By train: Taormina-Giardini station, connected to the center by shuttle bus. Nearest airports: Catania-Fontanarossa (approx. 60 km) and Reggio Calabria.
Location
The main events take place along Corso Umberto and in Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina's historic center, with activities also held in the hamlets of Trappitello and Mazzeo.
Costs
Admission to all Carnival events is free. The historic center is a limited traffic zone (ZTL); it is recommended to use the parking lots at the base of the town and take the shuttles.
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Where does it take place — Taormina Carnival
Corso Umberto