Nivarata: the Festival of the Sicilian granita in Acireale

According to many enthusiasts, you can find the real Sicilian granita in this picturesque village in the province of Catania. And it is no coincidence that here, every year, Nivarata takes place, the Festival of the Sicilian granita in Acireale: the 2018 edition is scheduled on May 25^th, 26^th and 27^th.

Nivarata

The reasons for which the Sicilian granita is so exquisite are the artisan preparation, the strictly seasonal ingredients and the mastery of the artisans. The views, the mild climate and the nice people also contribute.

These are the ingredients that make Nivarata a special event. Also for this year’s edition, you will have the opportunity to taste several types of granita, participate in contests, exhibitions and cooking shows, and learn all the secrets of the real Sicilian granita.

How to get

As already mentioned, Acireale is located in the province of Catania. And Catania is one of the most important ports for the ferries to Sicily.

Starting from the city near Etna, just take the state highway 114 towards north and follow the road signs to Acireale. The car journey takes just half an hour. A journey that will be a real pleasure, admiring the views of this part of the eastern coast of Sicily.

Visit Acireale

The enveloping flavor of the granita shouldn’t make you forget that Acireale is a town rich in history, art and culture, and therefore it is absolutely worth a visit. The most beautiful places to see are these five:

• Cattedrale di Acireale;
• Opera dei pupi;
• Palazzo municipale (o Loggia giuratoria);
• Terme di Acireale;
• La Timpa.

A “food and wine” tour

And the granita will not even be the only typical flavor that you will taste during this short holiday. Because the food and wine tour of the province of Catania continues with:

• Arancino, the Sicilian street food par excellence;
• Etna DOC, a unique wine;
• Pistachio, which in this part of Sicily is synonymous with Bronte.

Further information

For further information about the 2018 edition of Nivarata, the Festival of the Sicilian granita in Acireale (complete program, how to participate, any changes of dates), you can visit the official website of the event, Nivarata.it.

Image source: Flickr.com/photos/gelateriadecoltelli