Carnival in Sicily 2026 is one of the most fascinating times to experience the island’s authentic soul. It blends centuries-old traditions, vibrant festivals, local cuisine, and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes.
Sicily is shaped by age-old traditions. For this reason, Carnival becomes one of the most exciting moments of the year to discover its true character. In 2026, the Sicilian Carnival once again offers an unmissable journey through celebration, culture, gastronomy, and scenery.
Traditions, Festivals & Hidden Gems
Unlike other, more uniform carnivals, the Sicilian Carnival is a mosaic of local traditions, each with its own distinct identity. Every city and village interprets Carnival in a unique way, blending Arab, Spanish, and Norman influences.
Among the most famous celebrations:
- Acireale (province of Catania)
Many travelers consider Acireale one of the most beautiful carnivals in Europe. It is famous for its papier-mâché allegorical floats, nighttime parades, and flower-adorned displays. As a result, the town fills with creativity, music, and light that captivates visitors of all ages. - Belpasso (province of Catania)
The Belpasso Carnival, held at the foot of Mount Etna in eastern Sicily, is a vibrant and authentic celebration. Unlike large, commercial festivals, it is crafted by locals—families, schools, and community groups design the floats, costumes, and performances and dance in the streer during the parade.
- Sciacca (province of Agrigento)
Here, Carnival is pure energy: massive satirical floats, live music performances, and the full involvement of the local community. It is one of the oldest carnivals in Sicily. - Termini Imerese (near Palermo)
Characterized by a strong folk tradition and the presence of historic local masks, it offers an authentic, less touristy atmosphere.
Why This Carnival are Authentic
Acireale Carnival: One of the Most Beautiful Sicilian Festivals
Experience the Acireale Carnival, one of Sicily’s most colorful and celebrated festivals. The event takes place each year in the historic town of Acireale, near Mount Etna. Giant allegorical floats, flower-covered parades, and lively street performances make it a must-see for travelers seeking Sicilian culture and tradition.
The Acireale Carnival stands out for its spectacular papier-mâché floats. Skilled local artisans create them, often drawing inspiration from satire and current events. During the festival, the town comes alive with live music, traditional costumes, and night parades illuminated by dazzling lights.
Visitors can also enjoy the historic Sicilian Baroque architecture of Acireale, making every parade and photo opportunity truly magical. With roots dating back to the 16th century, the carnival combines centuries of Sicilian craftsmanship with modern creativity.
Whether you’re planning a family trip or a cultural tour, the Acireale Carnival delivers an unforgettable experience. Colors, music, food, and tradition come together in every celebration.
Belpasso Carnival- Tradition at the Foot of Mount Etna
What makes the Belpasso Carnival truly authentic is its deep connection to the local community. Size and spectacle matter far less here.
In Belpasso, Carnival is not a tourist show. Families, schools, and local associations design the costumes, build the floats, and take part in the parades. Generations work together, passing down skills, stories, and a strong sense of identity. Visitors are not spectators on the sidelines—they are welcomed into a living tradition.
Set at the foot of Mount Etna, the Carnival reflects eastern Sicily’s character. It feels resilient, creative, and deeply rooted in the land. The streets become a meeting place where music, satire, and color blend naturally with everyday life. There are no barriers between performers and audience, only a shared celebration.
Food also plays a key role in this authenticity. During Carnival days, local bakeries and street stalls offer traditional Sicilian sweets prepared according to family recipes, turning every walk through town into a sensory journey.
As a result, the Belpasso Carnival offers something rare. Travelers experience a celebration shaped by community, tradition, and genuine joy—not mass tourism.
Sciacca Carnival – A Must-See Festival in Sicily
The Sciacca Carnival is one of the most important and historic carnivals in Sicily, attracting visitors from all over Italy and abroad. Held every year in the coastal town of Sciacca, the festival features some of the largest allegorical floats in Italy, crafted by local artists using traditional papier-mâché techniques.
Colorful parades, live music, choreographed performances, and the legendary character Peppe Nappa create an unforgettable atmosphere. The carnival blends entertainment with cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique insight into Sicilian creativity and humor.
Ideal for cultural tours and winter holidays, the Sciacca Carnival can be combined with visits to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, Selinunte, local wineries, and Sciacca’s famous thermal baths.
Termini Imerese Carnival – A Historic Carnival in Sicily
The Termini Imerese Carnival is one of the most historic and authentic carnivals in Sicily, celebrated annually in the town of Termini Imerese, just a short distance from Palermo. Known for its folkloric character, the carnival combines traditional allegorical floats, masked parades, live music, and theatrical performances.
At the heart of the celebration are “u Nannu” and “a Nanna,” iconic figures symbolizing Carnival excess and renewal. Their story unfolds throughout the festivities, ending with a symbolic ritual that reflects Sicily’s deep-rooted popular traditions.
Ideal for cultural and experiential tourism, the Termini Imerese Carnival offers visitors an engaging way to explore Sicilian heritage and can be easily combined with visits to the Palermo Tour, Cefalù, and the Madonie Mountains.
Every Excuse Is Good to Eat in Sicily — Even Carnival!
In Sicily, food is never just food — it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community. And Carnival, with all its colors, music, and spectacle, is no exception. In fact, every excuse is good to eat in Sicily, and Carnival gives locals and visitors alike the perfect reason to indulge.
During Carnival, Sicilians delight in traditional sweets and seasonal treats that have been passed down through generations. From the crisp, airy chiacchiere sprinkled with sugar to the small, round castagnole fried to golden perfection, every bite tells a story. In Belpasso and other towns, family-run bakeries and small pastry shops fill the streets with irresistible aromas, turning a walk through the town into a true culinary journey.
But Carnival isn’t just about sweets. Markets and street stalls offer Savory delights — local cheeses, fried snacks, and fresh bread — giving travellers a taste of authentic Sicilian everyday life. Pair it all with a glass of Sicilian wine or a sweet liqueur, and you’ll quickly understand why Sicilians say that any excuse is good to eat.
For travelers, Carnival becomes more than a festival. It turns into an immersive gastronomic experience where tradition, flavor, and celebration meet.
February: The mild Month to Visit Sicily
Visiting Sicily in February offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and a uniquely authentic experience. The island’s dramatic landscapes, from the slopes of Mount Etna to the baroque streets of eastern towns, are at their most enchanting.
Carnival season enhances the magic: from Belpasso to Acireale, towns and villages host colorful parades, music, and traditional performances. February allows travelers to combine cultural immersion, culinary indulgence, and scenic exploration, all at a leisurely pace.
Whether you’re seeking authentic Carnival traditions, flavors of Sicily, or simply the charm of local life, February proves there is no better time to experience Sicily in all its vibrant and authentic glory.
For this reason, Carnival in Sicily 2026 feels deeply authentic. The celebrations unfold naturally across towns and villages. At the same time, visitors experience traditions that locals still live every day.
Plan Your Luxury Sicily Carnival 2026 Experience
For discerning travelers, Carnival offers luxury through authenticity: small-group tours, private experiences, and insider access to cultural moments that go beyond the ordinary. It’s a chance to celebrate, taste, and explore Sicily tours like a local—with the comfort, style, and personal attention expected from a premium travel experience.
Step off the beaten path, indulge in Sicily’s traditions, and let Carnival 2026 show you the island in its most colourful and authentic form.
At Classic Sicily, we design tailor-made tours combining culture, comfort, and authenticity. Whether you want a one-day escape or a full itinerary across the island, we’ll create it around your interests.
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.
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