Putignano CarnivalCarnevale di Putignano
Putignano, Puglia, Italy
Save this celebration to keep it in your plan.
🎟 Ticketed (€16 - €30)
FestivalAtlas
The Putignano Carnival, originating in 1394, is one of Italy’s oldest and longest-running carnivals. It features colorful parades of papier-mâché floats and traditional pageantry held over several weeks leading up to Lent 1 2.
Historically the carnival bridged the period from Christmas to Lent, rooted in medieval rite and satire. The festival includes unique local rituals (like the “Farinella” and Campanone ceremonies) and playful satire on current events, reflecting the identity and resilience of the community.
Venues and routes
Corso Umberto I · Putignano
Corso Umberto I
Main · Main parade route · Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 70017 Putignano BA, Italy · Putignano
Corso Umberto I
Main parade route · Corso Umberto I, Centro Storico · Putignano
Piazza Plebiſcito
Ceremonial opening/closing events · Piazza Plebiscito, 70017 Putignano BA, Italy · Putignano
The dates that shape the visit.
Opening day · Sun, Jan 17
Grand finale parade on Shrove Tuesday, concluding right before Lent. Sometimes followed by fireworks (weather permitting).
Arrive early (by 9:30) along the route to see the final, most elaborate floats. The mood is festive and emotional.
Procession and ceremonial start of carnival on the feast of St. Anthony (Jan 17 each year).
Arrive by 19:30 to find a good spot; expect fireworks and free giveaways at the ceremony.
Day 16 · Mon, Feb 1
The first official parade day with elaborate floats and local groups; originally held Feb 1 in 2026 ([www.comune.putignano.ba.it](https://www.comune.putignano.ba.it/novita/notizie/novita_3180.html#:~:text=%E2%97%8F%2029%20gennaio%20%E2%80%93%20Gioved%C3%AC,Ballare%20a%20Teatro)).
Find a viewing spot along Corso Umberto I by 9:30; street festivities and music accompany the procession.
A compact reference once the trip is real.
Practical notes refreshed Mar 4.
Tickets required · Typical price: €16 - €30
Very high crowds · Energetic energy
Very crowded especially along the main parade routes; find space off the route for breathing room.
Generally safe; well-organized and patrolled. Stay aware in large crowds.
Winter weather (cool, often sunny). · Events proceed in light rain
Daily budget: €50-80 · Drinks: €2-5 for soft drinks/beer
Use public transit instead of taxis; bring your own reusable bottle (water fountains available); eat at local trattorias or food trucks away from main parade route.
From center: Located within ~1 km of Putignano town center. · Wheelchair-accessible areas for primary events (information at Infopoint)