La Mattanza
May-June
Not for the faint-hearted, La Mattanza (The Massacre) is the annual tuna hunt just off the Egadi Islands on Sicily’s west coast. Head out to sea with the fishermen or wait on the beach for their return and a slap-up fishy feast.
Festival of Santa Rosalia
July
For Palermitani (Palermo inhabitants), mid-July means only one thing: the annual feast day of their patron saint, St Rosalia, and the huge street party and procession that accompanies it.
Festival of San Salvatore
August
Cefalù lays on two days of processions, street performances and fireworks to celebrate the town’s patron saint, St Salvatore. Local food plays a big role – look out for pasta a taianu, a delicious concoction made with aubergines and pecorino cheese.
Sagra della Salsiccia
September
Sicilian sausages are so good, they’re worth celebrating – at least according to the townsfolk of Aragona, who throw an annual party dedicated to the peasant staple.
Targa Florio Classic
October
Once a competitive race along Sicily’s northern coast from central Palermo through the Madonie Mountains, the event is now a stately procession of classic cars that draws enthusiasts from all over the world.