January, 02 2024 ( Updated October, 17 2024)
Continue the holiday festivities with one of the oldest carnivals in the world, the Putignano Carnival!
Dating back to the 14th century, the Putignano Carnival is one of the oldest and most famous carnivals in the world. The celebrations take place in Putignano, a town in the sunniest region of Italy, Puglia!
The Carnival begins on December 26th and lasts until Mardi Gras, the day before the start of Lent. Each Thursday highlights a specific social group, culminating in a grand finale for married men, marked by the symbolic cutting of horns. The festivities end on Mardi Gras with 365 beats on the Macaroni Bell, signalling the start of Lent.
The Putignano Carnival kicks off with the Festa delle Propaggini on December 26th, a captivating spectacle that transports viewers through centuries of tradition and history even if they don't speak Italian or the local dialect. This unique celebration features poets known as 'offspring,' dressed in historical peasant attire, using satire and rhymed verses to recount the past year in an unconventional way. The event takes place in Piazza Plebiscito, coinciding with the Cèppone ceremony that marks the start of Carnival.
One of the distinctive features of the Putignano Carnival is the use of traditional and unique carnival masks, some of which have been handed down through generations. These masks often represent characters from the famous renaissance-style Italian Commedia dell'arte.
The Farinella is the signature mask of Putignano Carnival, named after a local dish. A fusion of Harlequin and Jolly Joker, it wears a colourful costume with city-themed colours and a bicorne with bells. Representing the lively and proud character of locals, it symbolizes the spirit of Putignano.
The carnival has a religious significance as well, with events and processions that reflect the local cultural and religious traditions. The town of Putignano transforms during the carnival season, attracting both locals and visitors over the world, and at the same time, managing to maintain its cultural and historical roots over centuries!
Vibrant parades floating down the streets of Putignano
About the area: Putignano, located in Puglia,
Italy, boasts a rich cultural heritage, renowned for hosting the historic
Putignano Carnival. The region is known for its delicious cuisine, including
seafood and local wines. Nearby attractions include the UNESCO-listed Trulli
houses in Alberobello, the stunning Grotte di Castellana caves, and the
picturesque Adriatic coast. The area is characterized by olive groves, charming
countryside, and a blend of historical and natural attractions.
Event Details
Name of
the event: Putignano Carnival
Location: Several venues in Putignano
Date: December 26, 2024 - March 4, 2025
Official Event Website: Putignano Carnival
Come and experience the festive
atmosphere where sun meets sea in Italy!
join over 80,000 people who receive our updates