Opening Ceremony (Festa di Sant'Antonio)
Arrive by 19:30 to find a good spot; expect fireworks and free giveaways at the ceremony.
~20:00
Carnevale di Putignano
Jan 17 - Feb 9, 2027Expected
Each year, the Puglian town of Putignano holds one of Italy's oldest and longest carnivals, first celebrated in 1394. For weeks before Lent, enormous, often satirical papier-mâché floats roll through the streets amid music and revelry, in a celebration that stretches from the deep of winter to the edge of spring.
Day 1 · Jan 17
Arrive by 19:30 to find a good spot; expect fireworks and free giveaways at the ceremony.
~20:00
Day 16 · Feb 1
Find a viewing spot along Corso Umberto I by 9:30; street festivities and music accompany the procession.
~10:00 - 14:00
Day 47 · Mar 4
Arrive early (by 9:30) along the route to see the final, most elaborate floats. The mood is festive and emotional.
~10:00 - 13:00
Putignano, Italy
Open in MapsVisitors may freely observe and even join public dances, but are asked to observe silence d...
Very crowded especially along the main parade routes; find space off the route for breathing room.
Winter weather (cool, often sunny). Rain would postpone outdoor events.
Regional trains (Ferrovie Sud Est) connect Bari to Putignano; local buses link to nearby towns.
Ticket required: €16 - €30
Generally safe; well-organized and patrolled. Stay aware in large crowds.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Carnevale di Putignano
Putignano, Italy
Each year, the Puglian town of Putignano holds one of Italy's oldest and longest carnivals, first celebrated in 1394. For weeks before Lent, enormous, often satirical papier-mâché floats roll through the streets amid music and revelry, in a celebration that stretches from the deep of winter to the edge of spring.
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.
Arrive by 19:30 to find a good spot; expect fireworks and free giveaways at the ceremony.
Find a viewing spot along Corso Umberto I by 9:30; street festivities and music accompany the procession.
Arrive early (by 9:30) along the route to see the final, most elaborate floats. The mood is festive and emotional.
first-timer tips
Visitors may freely observe and even join public dances, but are asked to observe silence during blessings and...
Jan 17 - Feb 9, 2027
Estimated
Putignano
Puglia
Bari Karol Wojtyla (BRI) · 35 km from festival
€16 - €30
Book ahead if required
Festive and lively, with repeated parades and street performances t...
Very crowded especially along the main parade routes; fin...
Families, solo travelers
Very High visitor welcome

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