April 2013
To celebrate the bicentennial of Giuseppe Verdi's birth, the Teatro Massimo is putting on the composer's greatest works this year. Don't miss his majestic Aida, from 12 to 18 April. www.teatromassimo.it

October 2012
"Sicilia 1812" is a fascinating exhibit of period clothing - testament to the elegance and grandeur of the Bourbon court in Sicily - lined along the grand staircase and state rooms of the Palazzo dei Normanni. Until 31 October.

April 2013
Piana degli Albanesi, 30km south-west of Palermo, celebrates one of Sicily's most famous desserts, the cannolo, during a three-day event. Cannoli & Friends takes place 16 to 19 April, and you can expect to see cannoli up to one metre in length.