If you have the opportunity to stay at the Blanc Maison Etna- Relais & Charms, the Inn Liberty, and Sicilia’s Art Hotel & Spa, located on the slopes of Mount Etna, you will also have the opportunity to attend to religious events and festivals typical of the city of Catania and surrounding municipalities.
Festa di San’Agata in Catania
The feast of Sant’Agata is a festivity truly felt by the citizens of Catania, as Sant’Agata is the patron saint of the metropolitan city. It takes place every year from 3 to 5 February, 12 February and 17 August. In February the martyrdom of the saint is remembered, while in August the return of her remains is remembered after they were stolen by General Maniace and brought to Constantinople as spoils of war. Characteristics of the so-called candelore, or wooden works, depicting the arts and crafts that are carried on the shoulders of devotees. The fireworks in Piazza Borgo are spectacular, usually happening during the penultimate evening of February.
Festa di San’Agata in Catania, photo by catania.gds
Carnival
In the period of February/March each year Acireale turns into a party! The Carnival of Acireale is one of the most famous in Italy, and Sicily, because of its floats that every year manage to surprise more and more visitors. Wagons, parades, masks and people in party to spend a day having fun with friends.
Good Friday Procession – Easter Friday in Taormina
Taormina is the gem of the Mediterranean with its coasts, the characteristic old town and the typical cuisine. Religious events are also held and the Easter Friday procession is very characteristic. In the evening the city shuts down and the churches light up, for the procession, for a unique display.
Festa di Sant’Alfio
At the end of April every year in Trecastagni the feast of Sant’Alfio is celebrated, which is a very special feast that every year attracts a large number of faithful. The cult of St. Alfio, which is celebrated along with Saints Cirinus and Philadelphus, and is very ancient.
Festa di Sant’Alfio, photo by notizie.comuni-italiani
Etna Wine Festival
At the end of August and the beginning of September in Milo there is the Sagra dei Vini dell’Etna, which annually attracts thousands of tourists who are passionate about good food and good wine. The event brings together the best Sicilian wineries, to frame the beautiful historic center of the city located in the province of Catania.
Pistachio Festival
Every year on the last weekend of September and on the first weekend of October there is the Bronte Pistachio Festival, the so-called “green gold of Sicily”. Pistachio is used everywhere: creams, ice creams, pestos and sometimes objects are made from pistachio. Cooking and handicraft moments, typical local products, musical shows and much more for a party to be seen at least once.
