In the city of Catania, Italy, there is a traditional festival held in February featuring giant paper mache puppets.
What is the name of this festival?

This week, I stepped into my regular coffee bar, expecting nothing more than a quiet cup.

Instead, I witnessed its final moments after 32 remarkable years in the neighborhood.

The bar felt nearly empty—shelves bare, echoes replacing familiar chatter.

The owner, a kind and familiar face, was locking up for the last time.

I once asked him about filming a video there; he gently declined, explaining the closure was close.

That small moment lingered with me.

Before he turned the key, I asked for a photo—a simple farewell, marking the end of countless mornings and conversations shared in those walls.

Cities change quietly, one small spot at a time.

For anyone who ever sipped a coffee there, this goodbye is for you.

From January 16 to March 29, 2026, the historic Chiesa San Giuseppe al Duomo in Catania transforms into an immersive tribute to Claude Monet and the Impressionist movement.

Step inside vibrant projections of Monet’s iconic works, including Impression, Sunrise and Water Lilies, where light and color seem to embrace every visitor.

Cutting-edge technology envelops guests, offering the sensation of being part of the paintings themselves.

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with final entry at 7:00 PM, the exhibition welcomes all ages — tickets are €15 for adults and €13 for children aged 2-12.

Booking ahead is highly recommended due to expected demand.

Located at Via San Giuseppe al Duomo, 4, the church is easily reached by public transport, while drivers can find parking nearby at Piazza Paolo Borsellino or Via Dusmet.

This visually stunning event invites everyone — from art admirers to curious explorers — to experience the magic of Monet in Catania’s city center.

On January 17, 2026, Catania’s Zō Centro Culture Contemporanee will come alive with "Sicily Is Rockin’!"—a celebration of Rock’n’Roll, Rockabilly, and Rhythm & Blues that honors Sicily’s evolving musical story.

International host Dave Bertiz, from Los Angeles' Crown City Bombers, will welcome music fans and lead an electric evening featuring eight standout bands, including Al & The Dirty Shakers, Dale Rocka and The Volcanoes, and Louisiana Reed.

Spirited performances are set to unite local talent and visitors, while DJ Andy R'n R will keep the party going on the dance floor late into the night.

Entry is just €10—available online and at the door—making this an unmissable event for anyone eager to dive into the fusion of Sicilian tradition and American sound.

Major Events in Catania — January 2026

🎨 Claude Monet — The Immersive Experience

Jan 16 – Mar 29, 2026

📍 Chiesa San Giuseppe al Duomo

This is not a traditional exhibition.
You don’t walk past paintings — you walk inside them.

Light, movement, color, and that calm, dreamy feeling Monet is known for.

Perfect if you want something slower, reflective, and different from the usual routine.

Great for:

• a relaxed afternoon

• art lovers (and non-art lovers too)

• escaping the noise of the city for a bit
  
  

  🎸 Sicily Is Rockin’ — One Night Only

  Friday, Jan 17, 2026

  📍 Zo, Catania
  ⏰ Doors open at 22:00
  
  

  Same city, completely different vibe.

  Eight live bands.
  Rock’n’roll, rockabilly, rhythm’n’blues.
  One stage. One long night.
  
  

  If you like live music, dancing, loud guitars, and leaving with a hoarse voice…this is the plan. Bring energy. Leave expectations at the door.
  
  

  🎼 Opera Season Opening — Aida by Verdi

  Opening night: Jan 20, 2026

  📍 Teatro Massimo Bellini
  ⏰ Evening show (around 20:00), ~3 hours
  
  

  This is one of those “real night out” events.

  The opera season opens with Aida, performed in full staging with an international cast — dramatic, elegant, and unapologetically classic.

  
  Good to know:

  • Premiere nights often sell out → book in advance

  • Dress code: smart-casual to elegant

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes early

  
  Perfect if you feel like doing something special.
  
  

  ⛪ Sant’Agata — The Quiet Beginning

  Jan 30–31, 2026

  📍 Catania Cathedral (Duomo) & nearby churches
  
  

  Before the big explosion of Sant’Agata in February,
  these days mark the emotional beginning.

  It’s quieter. Less crowded. But you already feel the city changing.

  
  Why go:

  • you sense the shift in atmosphere

  • locals are already in “Sant’Agata mode”

  • it’s intimate, reflective, and very Catania

  Expect some traffic restrictions around Piazza Duomo.

For the whisky lovers out there
This showed up while we were putting the newsletter together…

A whisky t-shirt we’d actually wear. 👉 See it here

P.S. The shirt’s covered. You just pay shipping.

Interesting Facts

Catania, located on the east coast of Sicily, is known for its rich history and vibrant culture.

One interesting fact about Catania is that it is home to the largest fish market in Italy, where locals and tourists can buy fresh seafood.

Another fun fact is that Catania is home to the iconic symbol of the city, the lava stone elephant statue known as "Liotru." Lastly, Catania is famous for its unique street food called "arancini," fried rice balls filled with meat, cheese, and peas.

These fun facts make Catania a must-visit destination for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The African Queen

Near the main train station
Via Monsignor Ventimiglia, 148, 95131 Catania CT < Go here for directions!

This African restaurant in Catania does comfort food with confidence. No tricks. No pretending.
Just honest dishes that make you slow down and enjoy every bite.

🎥 Watch the video below

Why is nobody talking about this African Restaurant?

If you’re looking to reach the beautiful residents of Catania and bring more locals through your door

👉 Click here to get featured

Quote Of The Day

"Life is a journey, not a destination. We must embrace the ups and downs, knowing that each experience shapes us into who we are meant to be.

Just like a cat chasing after a piece of string, we must pursue our dreams with determination and agility. Remember, even when faced with obstacles, we have the strength within us to overcome.

So let us boldly step forward into each new day, ready to take on whatever challenges come our way. Stay curious, stay adventurous, and never stop seeking the joy in life's little moments."

Pasta al Pomodoro

A timeless Italian tomato pasta made with just a few high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients

• Pasta
• Canned tomatoes or passata
• 2–3 garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil
• Salt
  
  

How To Make

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add olive oil to a pan → add garlic → low heat.
3. When fragrant, add tomatoes → add salt.
4. Simmer sauce for 10–15 minutes.
5. Cook pasta until al dente.
6. Save some pasta water → drain pasta.
7. Add pasta to sauce → toss.
8. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.
9. Turn off heat → add basil → drizzle olive oil → serve.

What if calming your body didn’t take time or effort?
This is a 60-second guided breathwork designed for real stress moments. 👉 Rapid Reset Breathwork