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 incursions along the Apulian coast, they were moved from a seaside abbey to the inland town of Putignano.
It is said that, as the procession passed, the farmers—who were working the land—abandoned their vineyards and work to join in dances, songs, and dialect satires: thus was born the first seed of what would become a carnival tradition.
From that moment on, every year—between religion, folklore, and lively irony—the city prepares for a period of celebration.
2026 Edition of the Putignano Carnival: Official Dates
In 2026, the Putignano Carnival will celebrate its 632nd edition. This year’s theme is “Where Everything Is the Opposite of Everything,” an invitation to reflect on the paradoxes of contemporary life.
The main parades, featuring allegorical floats and masked groups, are scheduled for:
- Sunday, February 1, 2026
- Saturday, February 7, 2026
- Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (Fat Tuesday)
An entire city transforms into a stage: papier-mâché masters have been working for months to create gigantic floats ready to parade through the streets and amaze visitors.
2026 Edition: What to Expect and Why Participate
The Putignano Carnival is more than just floats: it’s an immersive experience, filled with music, satire, participation, art, and community. This year, too, you can experience unforgettable moments, such as:
- Admiring unique papier-mâché works, crafted with care and imagination;
- Experience the most authentic side of Carnival, far from commercial excess, amid dialectal satire, traditions, and community.
- Combining travel and celebration: Puglia, with its villages, food, and people, becomes the perfect setting for a vacation that balances culture and lightheartedness. You can also experience a popular tradition during the off-season and appreciate the region’s cultural heritage even more.
How to participate: practical information
If this article has convinced you to participate in the Putignano Carnival, then all you have to do is buy your ticket!
You can purchase your ticket on the official Putignano Carnival website.
Attention! There are different ticket types:
- Flexible ticket: This ticket gives you access to one day. You can choose later (up to one day before the event) which days you want to participate in.
- 4-day pass: This pass gives you access to all four days. The pass is personal.
- Day Ticket: This ticket is valid for 1 day only. Choose the day when purchasing.
- Young Adult Day Ticket (11-14 years old): This ticket is valid for 1 day only. Choose the day when purchasing.
Now that you have all the information, all that’s left to do is reserve your seat!
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