Termini Imerese is gearing up for its vibrant Carnevale 2025 festivities, full of music, tradition, and community spirit. The celebrations kick off on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 9 PM with a highly anticipated concert featuring the ethno-popular band Sirah, known for their innovative sound blending Mediterranean and Irish musical influences.
The concert is set to take place at Piazza Duomo, where attendees can expect to dance to the infectious rhythms led by the band’s dynamic frontman, Sergio Bruno, alongside vocalist Giusy Fili. Sirah’s unique blend of lively tarantella and modern rock promises to bring the festive atmosphere to life, making for a memorable night for both locals and visitors.
Earlier this month, the selection of damigelle (bridesmaids) to accompany the traditional Nanni—a significant symbol of Termini Imerese's Carnevale—took place at the MeNeFod venue. Organized by Viviana Raja, who has taken charge of the Nanni’s ceremonial aspects, the selection event engaged numerous aspiring participants through playful games meant to showcase their charisma and festive spirit.
Raja, who is also one of the proprietors of the traditional Nanni masks, expressed her excitement about reviving this cherished custom, declaring, "Questo anno è tornata a curare il cerimoniale dei Nanni" (This year I have returned to manage the ceremonial aspects of the Nanni).
The selected damigelle for Carnevale 2025 include Carol Bacino, Chiara Vittorino, Evelyn Bellavia, Emanuela Cilfone, Rebecca Rio, and Giulia Bartolomeo. These young women will take turns accompanying the Nanni during Termini’s festive events, playing a key role in keeping the lively tradition alive.
The rich schedule of events during Carnevale will feature numerous activities, not only on the main days of celebration from February 28 to March 4 but also including outreach activities at schools and gatherings at senior centers. The excitement peaks with the grand parade on March 4, which will attract participants from across the region.
To facilitate the celebrations, the Comune di Termini Imerese announced the suspension of blue parking lines on key streets to ease access for event-goers. This temporary measure will be effective from February 18 to March 7, covering significant areas including Via Iannelli, Via Garibaldi, Piazza Umberto I, and the Piazza Duomo. This initiative aims to support the community’s engagement during this festive period.
Carnevale is not just about the masks and parades; it embodies the cultural heritage of Termini Imerese, showcasing the town’s traditions and inviting everyone to partake in the celebrations. With municipal officials and community leaders involved, including Mayor Maria Terranova and local notables like On. Luigi Sunseri and the well-known Nando Cimino, the locals’ commitment to keeping these traditions vibrant has never been more evident.
Reflecting on the significance of Carnevale, Raja stated, "Le damigelle selezionate per il Carnevale 2025 sono..." (The selected damigelle for Carnevale 2025 are...) emphasizing the importance of these roles not just for the celebrations but as integral elements of the town’s identity.
With so much planned, Termini Imerese is poised for another successful Carnevale, filled with music, joy, and the celebration of its unique cultural heritage. Citizens and visitors alike are encouraged to join the festivities and create lasting memories during this special time.