Colors of Messina - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The beautiful customs and traditions of Sicilians are considered one of the most inimitable and distinctive in Italy. Throughout the year, Messina hosts many interesting holidays ideal for getting acquainted with the traditions of locals. Every year on May 1, they celebrate the traditional Carro Siciliano Festival dedicated to the traditional Sicilian cart. The townspeople consider it one of their main national symbols. The tradition of the original holiday originated hundreds of years ago. In the past, small wooden horse-drawn carts were one of the main tools for local residents who were mainly engaged in agriculture. They were used as the main vehicle for plowing land and transporting crops.

Not only peasants but wealthy people used similar carts - richly decorated ones, of course. Over time, peasants began to imitate the local aristocracy and decorate their carts in the same manner. They came up with an interesting holiday to compete in the art of decorating their "carros". Over the centuries, the holiday has gained immense popularity and now it is annually celebrated in many cities of Sicily. The brightest carro parade takes place in Messina. All the carts participating in it are real works of art. Besides the traditional parade, the holiday is accompanied by other interesting entertainments involving local musicians, dancers, and street performers.

Another symbolic holiday for Messina is called the “Procession of the Giants” and the history of its emergence is associated with a beautiful legend. According to ancient legends, the city was founded thousands of years ago by giants. The townspeople continue to believe this legend for many years. They organize a celebration in honor of mythical characters every year creating always new beautiful figures of giants. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The celebration opens with a magnificent procession, during which the giants are carried along the main city streets. Throughout the day, the popular festival is accompanied by interesting gastronomic entertainment and performances. Local farmers present their best products at fairs, traditional food is prepared for participants right on the streets. Among visitors to Messina, the most favorite entertainment is taking pictures against the backdrop of colorful figures of giants, which are installed on one of the main squares after the procession.

Many tourists seek to visit Messina at the end of January when the annual carnival kicks off in the city. The tradition of its holding is now widespread throughout Sicily, but the first carnival was held back in the late 16th century. In all cities of the island, preparations for the largest carnival are held throughout the year. It lasts several weeks and ends with the beginning of Lent. During the carnival, guests of Messina can enjoy all sorts of entertainment, watch the colorful street processions and try on incredible carnival costumes.

The holiday is characterized by an important gastronomic component. Since the carnival is followed by Lent, it is customary to cook the best meat dishes. Open-air cafes and stalls on the streets of Messina serve wonderful dishes, which are prohibited to Christians during fasting. Special activities are organized for children - they can try out rides and carousels installed on the streets, take part in interesting competitions, and attend theater performances.

Speaking of the cultural traditions of citizens, it is worth noting their high religiosity. Messina hosts many beautiful religious holidays, but the most magnificent celebrations are held on Christmas and Easter. Messina residents consider the Mother of God to be their patroness, in whose honor it is also customary to arrange a special holiday. On this day, statues of the saint are brought to the streets and carried at the head of the solemn procession. This official part of the holiday is followed by a noisy and fun-filled informal part.

Fans of event tourism would probably prefer to visit Messina in early June when local residents celebrate the City Day. This holiday is dedicated to the history of Messina and the main cultural traditions of its inhabitants. It is always accompanied by colorful fairs and lush street performances. Local residents managed to preserve their most beautiful centuries-old traditions, which are honored by symbolic holidays every year.