Uè - Urban Events

A festival regenerating Gela's historic center

In the heart of the historic center of Gela, in the province of Caltanissetta, Sicily, Uè - Urban Events is much more than a cultural festival: it is an urban regeneration project that uses art, music, and dialogue as tools to mend the relationship between the city and its spaces. Launched in 2023 by the Civico 111 association, the festival has chosen the former Benedictine convent as its headquarters—a symbolic landmark of the old town that comes alive every year with people, works of art, and new ideas.

Urban art and resilience

The central theme of the event is regeneration: transforming forgotten spaces into vibrant places, returning them to the community, and fostering a sense of belonging. Street art is its most recognizable language. Murals and signature works color the walls and courtyards, while the festival complements visual art with a dense program of talks, workshops, and open discussions for all citizens.

The theme of the 4th edition: Radicanza

The 2026 edition revolves around the theme "Radicanza. Practices of urban continuity": the goal is to continue the path started over the years, further cultivating a sense of belonging and commitment to urban renewal. The chosen symbol is a plant, the rhizome, which evokes the idea of restanza (staying), putting down roots, and remaining. The festival returns to the area of the former Benedictine convent, where a new 3-on-3 basketball playground comes to life among the murals created in previous editions.

For all ages

Uè - Urban Events is designed to involve all age groups: alongside talks for adults, the program offers workshops and activities dedicated to children. Sports take center stage with the basketball court inaugurated among the street art pieces, a concrete sign of how culture can generate new spaces to be enjoyed every day.

A network of partners for the city

The festival is made possible by a wide network of local entities. Partners include the Balù Educational Center, FAI, the Agesci Gela 4 scout group, Gela Basket, the Lions Club ATC, and SAI Gela MSNA, while main supporters include SP Group, Dama Group, and Alpha Consulting. The event also enjoys the patronage of the Municipality of Gela, confirming the project's deep roots in the city's fabric.