This Easter weekend, Italians are faced with a mix of weather forecasts and an abundance of cultural events across the country. As families prepare for the holiday, many are left wondering about the weather and what to do in their local areas.
Published on April 18, 2025, the weather forecast for Easter Sunday, April 20, indicates a split in conditions. While the northwest regions, including Piedmont, Valle d'Aosta, Liguria, and parts of western Lombardy, brace for an Atlantic disturbance bringing rain, the central-southern parts of Italy will enjoy more stable and sunny weather. This means that while some are planning outdoor activities, others may need to reconsider their plans due to the rain.
The forecast predicts that Sardinia will experience widespread rain throughout the day, while Tuscany may see showers beginning in the afternoon. In contrast, the rest of the northern regions will be dry in the morning, with some clear skies, but clouds are expected to increase as the day progresses. The south, particularly in regions like Puglia, Calabria, and Sicily, will bask in pleasant, sunny conditions, making it the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy Easter outdoors.
However, Easter Monday, also known as Pasquetta, will bring a significant change in weather. The forecast suggests a deterioration in conditions, with the risk of sudden thunderstorms across many areas. Those hoping for sunshine on this day may need to keep an umbrella handy, as the weather could change rapidly.
In Catania, the Easter weekend is packed with events that cater to various interests. From exhibitions to concerts, there's something for everyone. The 'Antico Egitto: segreti e tesori della Valle dei Re' exhibition runs from April 11 to May 11 at Centro Sicilia, offering a glimpse into the mysteries of ancient Egypt. Visitors can explore artifacts and learn about ancient rituals, making it a perfect family outing.
Additionally, the 'Lanternia' festival, featuring giant artistic lanterns, takes place from April 11 to June 22, 2025, in Via Palermo. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, drawing crowds eager to admire the creativity of artists from around the world.
For those looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, Officine Culturali offers guided tours at the Monastero dei Benedettini daily from 10:00 to 17:00. This historic site is a gem of Sicilian Baroque architecture, perfect for a leisurely exploration during the holiday.
Families can also participate in a 'Caccia alle uova' (egg hunt) at Villa Bellini, where children can search for colorful eggs and enjoy a day filled with games and surprises. This event not only promises fun but also supports a good cause, as proceeds from the 'CURIOSUOVO' will help improve the pediatric department of the ARNAS Garibaldi hospital in Catania.
For music lovers, Samuele Bersani will perform at Teatro Metropolitan on April 18, 2024, as part of his ongoing tour. His concerts have been well-received, and this performance is expected to draw a large crowd eager to enjoy his unique blend of sounds.
Moreover, the 'Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience' exhibition at Chiesa San Giuseppe al Duomo invites visitors to step into the world of the renowned artist through virtual reality. Running until September 7, 2025, this exhibition allows attendees to experience Van Gogh’s art in a completely new way, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
As for dining options, many restaurants and venues are preparing special Easter menus. Scialari, for instance, will host a traditional Easter dinner on April 18, starting at 20:30, costing €28, which includes a glass of wine and cover charge. Reservations are recommended due to the expected high demand.
However, for those who need to make last-minute grocery purchases for their Easter meals, the situation can be tricky. Supermarkets across Italy often close during the holidays, with many choosing to remain shuttered on Easter Sunday, April 20. Yet, several chains are planning special openings for Easter Monday, April 21, to accommodate the needs of those who may have forgotten essential ingredients for their festive meals.
Aldi, for example, will keep all its stores closed on Easter Sunday but will reopen on Easter Monday with holiday hours typically from 8:00 to 20:00. Similarly, Bennet will close its stores for the entire day of Easter Sunday but will have many locations open on Easter Monday, albeit with reduced hours.
Carrefour also confirms that most of its supermarkets will be closed on Easter Sunday, while many will open on Easter Monday, particularly those located in urban centers. Conad leaves the decision to individual stores, meaning some may remain open while others close.
For shoppers looking for specific hours, it is advisable to check the websites of these chains for the most accurate information. Coop and Ipercoop supermarkets may also have varying hours, with some remaining open on both days.
As families across Italy prepare for Easter, the combination of variable weather and a plethora of cultural activities ensures that there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s enjoying a sunny picnic in the south or exploring exhibitions and concerts in the cities, this Easter weekend is set to be a memorable one.
