Sicily isn’t just a destination; it’s a feast for the senses. At Classic Sicily, we live and breathe Sicilian travel. Thanks to our dedicated local specialists, we know all the best culinary experiences the island has to offer. From February to October, the island comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from thistles to wine. Let us guide you through Sicily’s vibrant festival scene, with a month-by-month guide that will tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in the island’s rich culture.
From February to October, the island comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from thistles to wine. Here’s a month-by-month guide to Sicily’s vibrant festival scene that will tantalize your taste buds and enrich your cultural experience.
February: Sagra del Carduni Vruricatu di Pioppo
When: February 4, 2025
Where: Monreale (PA)
Start your year of Sicilian festivals with an ode to the humble thistle. Monreale’s Sagra del Carduni Vruricatu celebrates this unique ingredient with creative dishes, offering a taste of Sicily’s knack for elevating even the simplest of ingredients. Pair it with local wines, and you’ve got a culinary masterpiece.
Bonus Event: Carnevale a Chiaramonte Gulfi
When: February 10-13, 2025
Where: Chiaramonte Gulfi (RG)
This carnival event is more than just masks and parades—it’s a sausage lover’s dream. Enjoy traditional folk performances, music, and, of course, an endless supply of mouthwatering sausages.
March: Sagra del Tarocco
When: March 2-3, 2025
Where: Francofonte (SR)
In March, Sicily turns its attention to the blood orange, or tarocco. Francofonte hosts a vibrant celebration featuring tastings, music, and creative uses of this sweet, tangy fruit. Expect to find orange-infused desserts, savory dishes, and refreshing beverages.
Don’t Miss: Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore
When: March 9-17, 2025
Where: Agrigento (AG)
The almond blossom festival in Agrigento is a feast for the senses, blending music, dance, and culinary delights amid the stunning backdrop of the Valley of the Temples. The blooming almond trees make it an Instagram-worthy event, too.
April: Sagra della Sfincia di San Giuseppe
When: April 2025 (Exact date TBD)
Where: Carini (PA)
Spring in Sicily isn’t complete without a taste of sfincia. This soft, doughy fritter, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, is the star of this festival. Wander through the streets of Carini and sample this sweet delight alongside other local delicacies.
May: Infiorata di Noto
When: May 17-19, 2025
Where: Noto (SR)
While not strictly a food festival, the Infiorata di Noto is a must-see. The streets of this baroque town are transformed into floral masterpieces. You’ll also find food stalls offering everything from arancini to granita—the perfect complement to the visual feast.
June: Taormina Film Festival
When: June 22-29, 2025
Where: Taormina (ME)
For cinephiles and foodies alike, the Taormina Film Festival is a dream. Enjoy international films at the iconic Greek Theatre, and indulge in the local cuisine that the festival’s pop-up markets and surrounding restaurants have to offer.
July: Festa di San Calogero
When: July 6-14, 2025
Where: Sciacca (AG)
This religious festival is a cultural immersion into Sciacca’s traditions. Beyond the processions and music, you’ll find street vendors selling Sicilian specialties like panelle (chickpea fritters) and cassatelle (sweet ricotta-filled pastries).
August: Stragusto
When: August 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Trapani (TP)
Trapani’s Stragusto celebrates the island’s rich street food culture. Sample Sicilian classics like sfincione (thick pizza), pani ca’ meusa (spleen sandwich), and gelato brioche. This festival captures the soul of Sicilian cuisine—hearty, flavorful, and rooted in tradition.
September: Festa della Vendemmia
When: September 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Marsala (TP)
Celebrate the grape harvest in the heart of Sicily’s wine country. The Festa della Vendemmia offers vineyard tours, wine tastings, and live music. It’s the perfect opportunity to sip on some Marsala wine while soaking in the island’s pastoral beauty.
October: Ottobrata Zafferanese
When: October 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Zafferana Etnea (CT)
End your festival journey in Zafferana Etnea with the Ottobrata, a month-long celebration of autumn’s bounty. From chestnuts to honey and porcini mushrooms, this festival showcases the season’s finest offerings. Add in the dramatic views of Mount Etna, and you’ve got an unforgettable experience.
Plan Your Sicilian Adventure with Us!
With such a rich calendar of festivals, Sicily offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in its culture and cuisine. Whether you’re savoring blood oranges in March or sipping wine in September, each event is a celebration of Sicily’s unique spirit. Let Classic Sicily design your dream culinary journey, incorporating your favorite festivals into an unforgettable itinerary. Contact us today, and let’s start planning your Sicilian adventure!
The Christmas markets of Sicily combine festive cheer, local culture, and delicious cuisine into an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re shopping for handmade treasures, savoring Sicilian treats, or enjoying live nativity scenes, these markets are the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Mario Fortini
Honeymoon trips, family trips, heritage holidays and all inclusive luxury vacations to Italy are my expertise and what I have a strong passion for. I offer my in depth knowledge of Italy’s 20 regions and over 150 incredible sites of interest the Italian traveller looking for custom tours, unique experiences in a luxury and stress free environment
Sicily unfolds its culinary treasures in vivid detail. Picture biting into arancini, the crispy exterior yielding to a warm embrace of creamy rice and savory delights. Wander through bustling markets, where the aroma of the sea intermingles with the fragrance of fresh produce. Don’t miss the sweet symphony of cannoli, a delightful Sicilian treat filled with rich ricotta goodness.Venture further into the island’s gastronomic wonders, savoring the icy delight of granita on a sun-drenched afternoon. Whether it’s the zesty allure of lemon or the bold richness of almond, each spoonful is a refreshing revelation.
Mario was great to work! We worked through the initial planning process then several iterations of replanning throughout COVID. Mario was very flexible through it all!
Very helpful, responsive, and knowledgeable.