06/02/2012
February 4 to 21 - Acireale Catania The town of Acireale in Catania is famous throughout Sicily for its spectacular floats, costumes, and parades during the carnival season. Every year, for two weeks in the month of February, a crowd of local and foreign tourists cheerfully flow in the main throughfares of this ancient coastal town in Sicily. The heart of the carnival in Acireale is the parade of the allegorical floats that are designed and created by local artisans. Made with paper màchè made vibrant with lively colors, the floats depict satirical caricatures of famous people - politicians, actors, musicians, artists and sports stars, as well as animals and mythical creatures. Resembling the people who control the Italian political and socio-economic environment, the masks are designed so they would be seen as comical and ridiculous in the eyes of the general public. There is much partying and feeling of fun on the streets. Children and adults alike, play pranks by throwing confetti at each other. for info: http://www.carnevaleacireale.com
