Festivals, travel route mid june though July 2010

Aloha
I'm organizing our trip, 19 year old daughter (well traveled) and myself. We had thought we would start our travels in Sicily, work our way up through Como. (With 6 weeks we are considering going into Paris or ??) our rationale was to avoid the increasing tourists and warm weather in the south. Now we want to make sure our travels include experiencing the local festivals, opera, etc.I would appreciate any input; what to see, when, time to spend, our route, etc.. Thanks!