News

ACIREALE SUMMER CARNIVAL – OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

 THE ACIREALE CARNIVAL COMES ALIVE AGAIN IN SUMMER WITH AN OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

💙 On August 1–2 and 8–9, Acireale will be transformed into a vast Open-Air Museum, where the magic of Carnival meets the charm of warm summer evenings.
✨ The magnificent allegorical floats of the 2026 Carnival will be displayed along the parade route and, at scheduled times, will come to life with spectacular performances featuring lights, music, movement, and special effects, creating unforgettable moments for both longtime Carnival lovers and first-time visitors.
💙 Welcoming visitors will be Ionica, the official mascot of the Summer Carnival, ready to share four days filled with joy, discovery, and fun.
🎭 Carnival will extend beyond its traditional boundaries thanks to the Isolated Masks, which will also take center stage in several nearby towns, while the historic center will come alive with street performances, live music, entertainment, and plenty of activities for all ages.
🌙 On August 8, the enchanting Sketches Night will feature the official presentation of the projects for the 2027 Carnival allegorical floats, flower-covered floats, isolated masks, and miniature floats, together with the official poster for the next edition: a journey into the future of Carnival through creativity, tradition, and innovation.
🎶 The program will also include major music and cultural events: Alkantara Fest, Etna Afrofestival, the Italian Music Festival, Carnival Visions, the 2026 competition awards ceremony, and the musical show Cantautorando, making for four unforgettable days of entertainment and excitement.
A project created to showcase the local area, welcome the large influx of summer visitors, and offer a unique experience that presents the Acireale Carnival in a whole new way.
📍 August 1–2 and 8–9, 2026
Summer has found its Carnival. And Carnival has found a new season to experience.

On August 1 and 2, starting at 8:30 PM, the following floats will parade:
“Giù le Mani” – Scalia-Fichera Cultural Association;
“U.S.A. e Getta” – Leotta Raciti Cultural Association;
“Var (Tutto da rivedere)” – Ardizzone Scenografie Cultural Association;
“Furia Animale” – Principato Mario Cultural Association;
“Due leggende, nessuna regola” – Arte e Cultura Cultural Association of Cavallaro Paolo Giuseppe.

On August 8 and 9, the following floats will take center stage:
“Ma… chi sei?” – Cavallaro Principato Messina Cultural Association;
“C’è posta per te” – Sardo Cultural Association;
“Non è l’inferno” – Coco Cultural Association;
“Il Battito della Terra” – Maschere Ribelli Cultural Association.

PROGRAM