Valderice Carnival
The oldest and most famous Carnival in the province of Trapani
About Valderice Carnival
The oldest Carnival in the Trapani area
The Valderice Carnival is the most historic and popular carnival event in the province of Trapani, Sicily. Since its inception in 1992, it has spanned over three decades, becoming a defining cultural landmark for the town of Valderice and the surrounding territory. Every year, during the carnival season, the town's streets are filled with color, confetti, and joy, attracting thousands of visitors from across the province.
Allegorical floats: masterpieces of papier-mâché
The absolute stars of the festival are the allegorical floats, authentic works of art crafted from papier-mâché and polystyrene by the skilled hands of local artists and float masters, who begin their work months in advance. Each year, the floats interpret different themes and satirical subjects, parading through the town's streets accompanied by vibrant dance groups and meticulously choreographed performances. The focal point of the event is Piazza Cristo Re, where the floats conclude their procession amidst the celebrating crowds.
The Mascherina d'Argento and square events
Among the most beloved highlights is the Mascherina d'Argento competition, dedicated to awarding the most beautiful carnival costume, which has engaged children and families for years. Throughout the festival, the program features evening shows, performances by provincial dance schools, disco and dance DJ sets, street food, and tastings of traditional Sicilian products and sweets.
Tradition, folklore, and local identity
The Valderice Carnival is more than just fun: it is a true expression of the folklore and identity of the community. The historic mascot of the festival, the Paparella, recalls the ancient name of the territory—once called Paparella due to a small lake inhabited by ducks—which is why the residents are still affectionately nicknamed papariddoti. It is a piece of popular memory that is renewed every year in the most colorful festival in the Trapani area.
An inclusive Carnival
In recent years, the event has placed great emphasis on inclusion, with dedicated events and evenings organized in collaboration with local associations, ensuring the festival can be enjoyed by everyone. Admission to all Valderice Carnival events is free.
Valderice Carnival — edition 2026
The 2026 Valderice Carnival brought the town to life from February 8th to 16th with a rich program of parades, music, and tradition, culminating in Piazza Cristo Re.
The first float parade was held on Sunday, February 8th at 4:00 PM, starting from Via Vespri (corner of Via Carollo) and arriving at Piazza Cristo Re, followed in the evening by a show featuring dance group performances. On Friday, February 13th, stands and a tasting area with local products were opened, followed by performances from provincial dance schools and disco/dance DJ sets. On Saturday, February 14th, the Mascherina d'Argento competition (18th edition) took place, with the evening animated by a live performance by Elena Adragna and her band, and the closing entrusted to the Extralarge.
On Sunday, February 15th, the second float parade was held, starting from Piazza Municipio and arriving at Piazza Cristo Re, followed by final performances. Finally, on Monday, February 16th, the "Inclusive Disney Carnival" organized by the Alba…La Vita association presented a show inspired by Beauty and the Beast at the Molino Excelsior hall, with free admission.
Programme Valderice Carnival 2026
2026 Program
- Sunday, February 8th — 4:00 PM float parade (from Via Vespri/Via Carollo to Piazza Cristo Re); 8:30 PM evening show with dance groups
- Friday, February 13th — 7:00 PM opening of stands and tasting area with local products; 7:30 PM performances by provincial dance schools and disco/dance DJ sets
- Saturday, February 14th — Afternoon: Mascherina d'Argento competition (18th edition); Evening: Live performance by Elena Adragna and band, closing with the Extralarge
- Sunday, February 15th — 4:00 PM second float parade (from Piazza Municipio to Piazza Cristo Re), followed by final performances
- Monday, February 16th — "Inclusive Disney Carnival" by Alba…La Vita, show inspired by Beauty and the Beast at the Molino Excelsior hall (free admission)
Highlights Valderice Carnival 2026
- Two allegorical papier-mâché float parades towards Piazza Cristo Re
- Mascherina d'Argento competition (18th edition)
- Live performance by Elena Adragna and band, DJ sets with the Extralarge
- Street food, local product tastings, and dance schools
- Inclusive evening "Inclusive Disney Carnival" at Molino Excelsior
Prices Valderice Carnival 2026
Practical information — Valderice Carnival
How to get there
Valderice is located in the province of Trapani, just a few kilometers from the provincial capital. By car, it can be reached via the A29 Palermo-Trapani motorway (Trapani exit) and the SS187 state road. Trapani-Birgi airport is approximately 25 km away; the Trapani railway station is the nearest.
Where it takes place
The events and float parades are concentrated in the center of Valderice, with the epicenter in Piazza Cristo Re. The parades travel along the main streets of the town.
Tickets
Admission to all events is free.
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Where does it take place — Valderice Carnival
Piazza Cristo Re