Weekend in Catania (May 9-10, 2026): practical family guide

On the weekend of May 9–10, 2026 Catania and its province offer several family-oriented activities: hands-on science workshops, puppet theatre, outdoor events and a short city run. Below is a practical selection with times, recommended ages and booking tips.

Family-friendly picks

• Ludum – Science Center: interactive path focused on light, perception and optical illusions with hands-on experiments. Sessions start from 17:30. Recommended for curious children and teens; booking suggested.
• Teatro Zig Zag – “Pulcinella mangia e balla”: colorful puppet show for young children. Weekend performances: Saturday at 18:00; Sunday at 11:00 and 18:00. Good indoor option in case of bad weather.
• Botanical Garden – “OrtOrigami with mum” (Sunday, May 10, 10:30): educational craft workshop for children aged 5–10 accompanied by an adult. Fee around €9; reservation required. Combines a stroll through the historic garden with a plant-themed hands-on activity.
• Corri Catania 2026 (Sunday, May 10, start at 10:00 from Piazza Università): about 5 km at a relaxed pace through the historic centre. Official kit (shirt, bib and bag) costs circa €5. Suitable for families with children and casual runners.

Activities for teens and families with older kids

• GuastaFest at Zō Centro Culture Contemporanee (May 9–10): multidisciplinary festival with performances, music and visual arts. Entry reported as free; appealing for teens and creative young people.
• GamePlay – Porte di Catania (May 8–10): preview of the Sicilia Game Expo featuring video games, board games, RPGs and cosplay. Ideal for families with teenagers who love gaming culture.
• 10 Armadi – Summer Edition (May 9–10, Villa Ardizzone): second-hand and vintage market, open 10:00–20:00. Free entrance; great for sustainable fashion fans.

Shows and music

• Teatro Coppola – “L’ospite vuoto”: staged May 8–10 with evening and afternoon shows (check times and book in advance). Suitable for young adults and families with older children interested in contemporary theatre.
• Mario Venuti in Sant’Agata Li Battiati (Sunday, May 10): acoustic concert at Parco Paternò del Toscano. Sources report either 17:00 or 18:30 as the start time — verify the exact time on your ticket or with the organizer.

Practical tips

• Book ahead: activities like the Science Center and the Botanical Garden lab often require reservations.
• Check weather and schedules: outdoor events may change; prefer indoor options if rain is forecast.
• Mother’s Day: the weekend coincides with Mother’s Day; family labs make meaningful gifts and shared experiences.
• Getting around: the historic centre is walkable; allow extra time for trips to Etna-area towns and for parking.

This selection focuses on family-friendly options to make the most of a weekend in Catania. Always confirm times, prices and booking rules with the official organizers before you go.