Zuppà

Zuppà, the arts festival of Chiaramonte Gulfi

Every year in early September, the historic center of Chiaramonte Gulfi—a village in the province of Ragusa known as the "Balcony of Sicily" for its sweeping views from Mount Etna to the Ippari Valley—transforms into a hub of activity. This is Zuppà, an arts festival promoted by the Youth Council with the support of the Municipality, the Province of Ragusa, the Sicilian Region, the ARS, and the Pro Loco.

The name says it all: Zuppà is a "soup," a well-blended mix of games, music, art, masks, flavors, and much more. The event was born with a clear goal: to revitalize the town's ancient heart and engage young people, bringing lively, well-attended evenings back to the squares and alleys of the Iblei region. Over the years, the festival has grown to become one of the most anticipated events of the late summer in Chiaramonte.

A program blending art, music, and community

The strength of Zuppà lies in its variety. Past editions have featured a rotating lineup of concerts and DJ sets, theater and dance performances, street shows, street art tours exploring the town's murals, sunset aperitifs with live bands, food areas showcasing local flavors, and festive moments for children with rides and games.

The festival also maintains a strong civic and charitable focus. In collaboration with the local AVIS (Blood Donors Association), it hosts award ceremonies honoring outstanding students, young athletes, donors, and local entrepreneurs, highlighting the deep bond between Zuppà and the community.

The summer carnival and the float parade

The most spectacular and iconic element of Zuppà is the summer carnival: a parade of allegorical floats and masked groups that winds through the historic center to Piazza Duomo. It brings the colors, costumes, and joy of the historic winter Carnival—officially recognized as one of Italy's historic carnivals—to the height of summer. The parade night concludes in the square with music and DJ sets that last until late at night.

Chiaramonte Gulfi, between the Iblei and tradition

Experiencing Zuppà in Chiaramonte Gulfi means discovering a village rich in culture: from its museums, such as the Pinacoteca and the Olive Oil Museum, to its culinary traditions centered on extra virgin olive oil and local sausage, and the unique panoramas of the Iblei Mountains. The festival is the perfect opportunity to visit the town when its streets are at their most vibrant.