The term Carnevale stems from the Latin expression carnem levare, which roughly translates to an urging to abstain from eating meat. Indeed, the day after Mardi Gras, the climax of Carnival, marks the beginning of Lent, a period extending until Easter, when one can again indulge freely. Meanwhile, Carnival is celebrated with festivities designed for fun, masquerading, and the joy of breaking away from the winter chill.

The celebrations are characterized by pure joy and revelry, including parades of floats, the distribution of food (especially meat), and various side events all aimed at entertainment. In Sicily, as in the rest of Italy, many towns celebrate Carnival, some boasting the oldest traditions.