Events and Festivals in Italy
Whether it’s a local party or a massive national festival, nothing’s more frustrating than missing out on major events on your travels. To make sure you’re at the most exciting events in Italy check out the HostelBookers roundup of what’s happening when. We’ve got the lot covered!
Fireworks and Celebration
Putignano Carnival - Italy
When: 26 December 2009 - 24 February 2010
The Putignano Carnival is one of the oldest carnivals in the world. But age isn’t the only thing it’s got going for it: stretching from Boxing Day to Shrove Tuesday, it’s also one of the longest around and can be seen as more of a festival period than an event.
Papier-mâché floats rumble through the streets of Putignano along with people dancing and singing. This marks the beginning of what was traditionally a period when holy relics were transferred from Monopoli to Putignano.
The religious aspects of this festival may provide its historical basis but the parades are what it’s become famous for. Multi-colored floats form part of a huge procession down the streets; a spectacle that’s complemented by the dazzling array of satirical masks on show.
