Carnival of Sciacca 2026: the 400th anniversary edition you must experience at least once
There are festivals that are beautiful to watch.
And then there are festivals that stay with you.
In 2026, the Carnival of Sciacca celebrates 400 years of history: five days, two consecutive weekends, a special edition officially recognized as a Historic Carnival and among the oldest in Italy.
Official dates:
February 20, 21, 22, 28 and March 1.
The city center transforms into a huge open-air theatre where everything is movement, music, performances and continuous entertainment from afternoon until late at night.
The allegorical floats: monumental moving shows
Huge papier-mâché structures featuring complex scenic movements, lights, original soundtracks, actors and real scripts.
It’s not just a parade.
Each float tells a story, often linked to current events and satire.
Live, the effect is overwhelming: the stage vibrates, the streets vibrate, the crowd vibrates.
Costumes and masked groups
Around the floats, hundreds of performers move in handmade costumes, with choreographies rehearsed for months, bright colours and coordinated stage designs.
When they pass by, the rhythm of the city changes.
It becomes a moving palette of colour.
The 2026 program: more than just parades
Each day follows a structured program:
Afternoon parade and stage show on Via Allende
Evening float performances with live acting
Music party and DJ sets
Carnival Revival featuring historic Carnival anthems
Carnevale de Caribe with salsa, bachata and Latin entertainment
Plus major live shows, special guests and different evening formats every day.
A highlight for families
On Sunday, February 22, Me Contro Te — among the most loved children’s entertainers in Italy — will perform live.
Throughout the event, the Kids Village Mega Center Toys offers entertainment, mascots, baby dance, shows, photo sets and meet & greets.
Also included:
Children’s Carnival
Funfair
Dedicated family areas
The Carnival of Sciacca is truly designed for all ages.
The symbolic moments of the 400th anniversary
Friday, February 20: ceremonial handover of the city keys to Peppe Nappa and official opening
Sunday, March 1: announcement of the winning float
The traditional Burning of Peppe Nappa, closing the celebration and welcoming the 2027 edition
These are the most emotional moments — the true beginning and end of the magic.
Street food, relax areas and nonstop fun
The route is designed so you can stay inside the event for hours:
food areas, funfair, central stage always active, live music, dedicated zones and grandstands.
It’s a complete experience, not just a show to watch.
Where to buy tickets
At our agency you can purchase:
Daily ticket
Full pass valid for all dates
Official lottery tickets