Thousands gather to celebrate the Sant'Agata Festival 2025, Catania’s most cherished tradition, as the city honors its patron saint with collective fervor. Kicking off on February 3, the festival showcases a rich itinerary filled with religious events, parades, and historical highlights, all steeped in the local community's devotion.
Starting on February 1 and extending through February 12, the festival features significant activities including the highly anticipated ‘Carrozza del Senato’ on February 3, the Messa dell'Aurora, and the grand procession of Sant'Agata through the streets of Catania. The annual festival pays homage to the patron saint, symbolizing faith, resilience, and hope, aptly themed “Sant'Agata, sign of hope and witness of freedom,” as expressed by Mayor Enzo Trantino.
The festivities will crescendo with the Pontificale mass on February 5, led by Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, concluding with spectacular fireworks lighting up the historic streets of Catania. This year, the mayor has made the unusual decision to skip the traditional ride on the ‘Carrozza del Senato,’ opting instead to allow local young people, particularly those involved with the “Catania è casa” initiative, the chance to participate.
Security is just as important as celebration. A city ordinance has established specific ‘red zones’ throughout Catania, where police presence will be heightened and strict regulations enforced to promote safety for participants and attendees. These measures will be effective from February 1 through April 30 to cover not just the Sant'Agata celebrations but also other major events happening later in the month and on April 25.
Among the festival’s new features, the introduction of the Candelore d’Oro award reflects the community's commitment to recognizing local talent. This accolade will be presented to the acclaimed actor Tuccio Musumeci for his unique ability to inspire joy and resilience among audiences, as Mayor Trantino highlighted, “This year, we rewarded Tuccio Musumeci for his capacity to smile and make others smile.”
From February 4 through February 6, following the Messa dell’Aurora, the revered statue of Sant'Agata will be paraded through both the outer and inner routes of Catania. The elaborate procession winds through prominent city streets, including via Etnea and piazza Università, ensuring all residents and visitors have the opportunity to experience the emotional connection and culture centered on Sant'Agata.
The full schedule of events features activities such as the Santo Rosario early on February 4, the exposure of the relics of Sant'Agata, and the energetic ‘Fuochi del Borgo’ section of the festival, where fireworks delight crowds gathered at major viewing spots. All parts of the Sant'Agata festival will receive extensive coverage, with updates streamed live through local channels like Antenna Sicilia and Telecolor.
City residents and visitors alike are encouraged to partake by using the special Agata Ticket, allowing access to public transportation during the lively days of celebration. At just €5, this ticket remains valid throughout the duration of the festival, making it easier for everyone to move around the city and join the festivities.
The Sant'Agata Festival stands not only as a display of reverence but also as a gathering of the community spirit of Catania. The anticipation for the joyous return each year not only fosters tourism but embodies the enduring faith of the locals. From the humbling masses to the eruptive fireworks, each moment serves to strengthen ties among community members and celebrate the enduring legacy of Sant'Agata.
Regardless of where you are, whether physically present or celebrating from afar, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the Sant'Agata Festival. For those unable to attend, numerous streaming options will allow individuals from all over to witness the festivities online, ensuring the love and devotion of this significant event reaches all corners.
Join the number of people eagerly counting down the days until the Sant'Agata Festival 2025 and immerse yourself in the heart of Catanian tradition, faith, and community. Follow these proceeding days closely, for soon, the streets of Catania will be alive with color, sound, and the joyful spirit of those gathered to celebrate their beloved patron saint.