The Sicilian club welcomed in the new year with a Hawaiian-themed lunch on January 25, drawing about 180 members and guests.

Men embraced the dress code with floral shirts—and in a few bolder cases, even thongs. Women opted for bright, eye-catching dresses perfectly suited to the tropical atmosphere.

“It’s a party that never gets old,” said club president Domenic Ballirò, who has been leading the organisation for three years.

“It gives everyone the chance to have fun with what they wear. The success speaks for itself—the turnout is always outstanding.”

It wasn’t just the decorations setting the tone, but also a menu designed to match the theme of the day: Pacific-inspired starters, Hawaiian rice, seafood pasta and a standout dessert of fresh fruit served inside a pineapple for an extra tropical touch.

A highlight of the afternoon was the music by Pauly J, the DJ who kept the dancefloor alive. With more than 30 years of experience, he said parties today no longer follow a rigid set list.

“I watch the crowd, I work out what’s landing and I build the afternoon as I go,” he said.

“The days of written playlists are over—I follow the rhythm of people’s emotions.”

Pauly J’s selection ranged from traditional dance favourites to 1980s hits and international classics, blending generations together on the dancefloor. The DJ also shared that in recent years he has modernised many Italian songs through remixes recorded with his band.

“I don’t buy the backing tracks—we play them ourselves,” he said. “That’s how a new way of enjoying Italian dance music was born.”

The event also brought together many familiar faces from the community, united by the desire to share a fun afternoon.

Filippa, for one, said the lunch always lifts her spirits. “It’s a beautiful opportunity to be together and share a day with my dear friends,” she said.

Not far away, Assunta Stolber—originally from Abruzzo and connected to Castellone, a small town in the province of Teramo—came especially to hear her favourite DJ.

“I hope 2026 brings serenity to everyone and, why not, the chance to finally go on holiday,” shared Stolber.

The club president echoed the sentiment. “In this difficult period,” Ballirò added, “my wish is simple: peace—and to keep coming together like this, with events that are always full.”

For the club, the year ahead is set to be packed with activities. Their next event will be the traditional Calamari Day on February 8, which is already sold out.