Carnival
Carnival in Puglia represents one of the most heartfelt and deep-rooted traditions in the popular culture of the region, a moment of celebration and joy that has its roots in centuries of history and that, even today, involves thousands of people. Every year, in the period preceding Lent, Puglia transforms into a stage of colors, music and dance, where the tradition of Carnival mixes with the creativity and passion of its inhabitants. The streets come alive with sounds, laughter and parades of allegorical floats, masks and costumes that represent the essence of a festivity that celebrates life, fun and popular culture.
In this section of the site, we want to take you to discover the most important celebrations of Carnival in Puglia, offering you an overview of the unmissable events and appointments not to be missed if you are in the region during the month of February. From the parades of allegorical floats in Putignano and Gallipoli, to the minor events that animate the villages and cities of Puglia, Carnival in Puglia is a unique experience that deserves to be lived.
Even the preparation of the allegorical floats is a job that requires time, passion, mastery and great dedication. The latter are in fact made entirely of papier-mâché, the result of a long process that begins in September and culminates in the weeks before Carnival. Each float reveals a piece of local culture and traditions, with characters that represent historical figures, characters from popular culture or themes of social denunciation. Every year, innovation mixes with tradition, giving life to spectacular works of art that enchant spectators of all ages.
Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in this extraordinary celebration, where tradition and art meet to celebrate joy and conviviality.
Putignano Carnival – Edition 2026
The Putignano Carnival is one of those festivals you can feel in the alleys, touch with your hands the floats, and laugh at the masks: a celebration with ancient origins and a deeply popular soul. Its history dates back to 1394: in that year, to protect the relics of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr from possible […]
Gallipoli Carnival – Edition 2026
In the deep South, where the sea meets history, Carnival takes on a special flavor: this is what Gallipoli offers, with a tradition that combines ancient rites, local masks, satire, and the desire to be together. The Gallipoli Carnival is a blend of the sacred and the profane: traditional rites, popular legends, and the daily […]
What to visit in Puglia in low season
Puglia is a region to be discovered not only in summer! Towns, villages and cities have so much to offer in all seasons, including unmissable events and relaxing stays in luxurious farms.
The carnival in Salento: art, culture and folklore
The month of February could be an excellent time to spend a holiday in Salento, as masks, confetti, Salento delicacies and lots of fun will be the main ingredients that will enliven the Carnival in Salento Greece with cheerful and lively colours. It is a festival in which art, intercultural meetings and twinning with different […]
Putignano Carnival 2020: Five events not to be missed
The Putignano Carnival is certainly one of the most famous events in Puglia. Apulian carpenters and master papier-mâché makers will create true works of art renowned throughout Italy.
Festivals in Puglia: the most important events
The best way to learn about the traditions and culture of a place is through festivals: in Puglia these take place all year round, allowing both locals to rediscover their roots and tourists to taste typical products and traditional dishes venue in a cheerful and carefree context, suitable for making friends and spending a pleasant evening enlivened by music and folklore.