Two Seas Carnival
The southernmost carnival in Italy, nestled between the Ionian and the Mediterranean
About Two Seas Carnival
Italy's southernmost Carnival
The Two Seas Carnival in Portopalo di Capo Passero is one of the most distinctive celebrations in the province of Syracuse. Its name reflects the town's unique geographical position at the extreme southern tip of Sicily, where the waters of the Ionian Sea meet the Mediterranean: this is why Portopalo proudly claims the title of Italy's southernmost carnival.
Floats and costumed groups
The heart of the festival lies in the parades of allegorical floats and costumed groups that travel along Via Vittorio Emanuele, the main artery of the historic center. The floats, crafted by local artisans, are renowned for their attention to detail, while the costumed groups showcase elaborate outfits, intricate choreography, and synchronized dances that turn the town streets into an open-air stage.
Three days of celebration
The event spans three days, featuring late-afternoon parades and evening musical shows on Via Garibaldi, where DJs and live bands take the stage. A highly anticipated moment is the award ceremony, where plaques and certificates are presented to the best costumes, with categories for children and adults, both male and female.
A festival for the whole community
Organized by the Municipality of Portopalo di Capo Passero with the support of local associations, the Two Seas Carnival is a deeply cherished event for the community of this small seaside village in south-eastern Sicily. The festival brings together adults and children in a joyful atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors every year, providing a significant boost to the local economy. There is also a summer version of the event, the Two Seas Summer Carnival, which takes place in August with floats and costumed groups.
Two Seas Carnival — edition 2026
2026 Program (19th edition)
Following the postponement due to a weather alert, the festival was held over the weekend of February 20-22, 2026.
Friday, February 20
- 17:00 — Parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups through the town streets
- 21:00 — Musical show with DJ Michele Ricca on Via Garibaldi
Saturday, February 21
- 16:30 — Parade of floats and costumed groups
- 21:00 — Presentation of plaques and certificates to the best costumes (children and adult categories, male and female)
- 21:30 — Live music with the Pablo Band on Via Garibaldi
Sunday, February 22
- 16:30 — Parade of floats and costumed groups
- 21:30 — Musical show with DJs Gianni Agosta and Antonello on Via Garibaldi
Programme Two Seas Carnival 2026
Friday, February 20
- 17:00 — Parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups through the town streets
- 21:00 — Musical show with DJ Michele Ricca (Via Garibaldi)
Saturday, February 21
- 16:30 — Parade of floats and costumed groups
- 21:00 — Presentation of plaques and certificates to the best costumes (children and adult categories, male and female)
- 21:30 — Live music with the Pablo Band (Via Garibaldi)
Sunday, February 22
- 16:30 — Parade of floats and costumed groups
- 21:30 — Musical show with DJs Gianni Agosta and Antonello (Via Garibaldi)
Highlights Two Seas Carnival 2026
Prices Two Seas Carnival 2026
Practical information — Two Seas Carnival
Location
The parades take place in the historic center of Portopalo di Capo Passero, mainly along Via Vittorio Emanuele, while the evening musical performances are held on Via Garibaldi.
Getting there
Portopalo di Capo Passero is located at the south-eastern tip of Sicily, in the province of Syracuse. By car, it can be reached from Syracuse via the SS115 road, passing through Pachino; the nearest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa, about an hour and a half away.
Admission
Parades and performances along the town streets are free of charge.
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Where does it take place — Two Seas Carnival
Centro storico (Via Vittorio Emanuele e Via Garibaldi)
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 96010 Portopalo di Capo Passero