Palermo police crackdown on illegal spritz vendors ahead of Santa Rosalia festival

The Municipal Police in Palermo have stepped up patrols in the historic centre, focusing on the illegal sale of alcoholic drinks from hand‑pushed carts known as “spritzari”. In the second half of 2025 the force issued 40 inspection reports, seized 30 carts, confiscated 490 alcoholic beverages and 431 kg of fruit‑and‑vegetable products. The first half of 2026 saw an increase to 57 reports, 45 carts seized, 530 drinks and 421 kg of produce confiscated, alongside dozens of violations of regional law 18/1995 and commercial regulations. Commander Angelo Colucciello said the actions aim to protect public order and ensure fair competition ahead of the annual Festino di Santa Rosalia, which draws thousands of visitors to the city’s main squares.

The intensified checks are part of a broader municipal effort to maintain urban decorum and safety during the high‑attendance festival period.