As the Sicilian sun softens and autumn colors sweep across the island, October becomes one of the best times to visit — especially for food lovers. From pistachios and honey to chestnuts and wine, Sicily’s fall harvest is celebrated with lively festivals in charming hill towns and mountain villages. If you’re planning an October getaway, here are the best food festivals in Sicily to tempt your taste buds and immerse you in local culture.
If you want to stay informed of Sicily’s cultural events and festivals, be sure to visit our What’s on in Sicily page.
Pistachio festival (Sagra del Pistacchio) — Bronte
When: Early October (dates vary)
Nicknamed the ‘green gold of Sicily,’ the pistachios grown in Bronte are celebrated with a vibrant festival showcasing sweets, gelato, pastries, and savory treats. Sample arancini with pistachio cream or pistachio pesto pasta while exploring Bronte’s historic center near the volcanic terrain of Etna. Learn more.
Ottobrata Zafferanese — Every Sunday in October
Set on the slopes of Mount Etna, the village of Zafferana Etnea hosts one of Sicily’s most famous autumn events: the Ottobrata Zafferanese. Each Sunday focuses on a different local product — from grapes and honey to apples and mushrooms. Streets come alive with artisan stalls, live music, and traditional Sicilian dishes. It’s the perfect introduction to Etna’s seasonal bounty.
Honey Festival – Zafferana Etnea
When: Second Sunday of October
Zafferana’s second Sunday is dedicated to honey — and not just any honey. The region produces Etna honey, rich and aromatic, from wildflowers and citrus groves. Visitors can taste fresh honeycomb, try honey-based liqueurs, and join workshops on traditional beekeeping. Learn more.
Etna Apple festival – Pedara or Zafferana Etnea
When: Third Sunday of October
Sicily’s apple harvest might surprise many, but the mele dell’Etna are prized for their crispness and flavor. This festival honors local apple varieties like ‘cola’ and ‘gelato,’ often baked into rustic tarts or paired with cheeses. Expect street performances, folklore, and village charm. Learn more.
Mushroom and Chestnut Festival – Montemaggiore Belsito or Castelbuono
When: Late October
As temperatures drop, Sicily’s woodlands yield porcini mushrooms and chestnuts. Villages like Montemaggiore Belsito host food fairs where mushroom risottos, roasted chestnuts, and hearty stews take center stage. It’s a warm, earthy conclusion to Sicily’s autumn calendar. Learn more.
Why visit Sicily in October?
October is harvest season, and Sicilian towns are bursting with authentic flavors and lively community spirit. It’s also ideal weather for travel — sunny days, cool evenings, fewer crowds. Whether you’re a serious foodie or a curious traveler, these festivals offer a taste of Sicily at its most soulful.
Book your Sicilian culinary escape
At Classic Sicily, we craft private itineraries around the island’s most iconic (and delicious) events. Contact us today to plan your October food tour and savor Sicily’s seasonal magic.
Book your Sicily holiday, a White Lotus-inspired journey today with Classic Sicily — where your dream Italian getaway becomes reality.
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!
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