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 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.
The carnival in Salento: art, culture and folklore
The Salento peninsula, a wonderful land between two seas, prepares to celebrate its characteristic Carnival every year, a festival in which art, intercultural meetings and twinning with different countries intersect and which give life to events characterized by folklore intertwined with religion.
Salento craftsmanship
Salento boasts an artisanal production that contains the knowledge of the "masters" of the past. Terracotta, papier-mâché, Leccese stone, wrought iron, ceramics are just some of the artisan traditions that have managed to preserve their fundamental traits.