Bitetto Carnival

The Bitetto Carnival, a popular Apulian tradition

The Bitetto Carnival is the most cherished winter event in Bitetto, a small town in the Metropolitan City of Bari, in the heart of Puglia. Every year, between February and early March, the town dresses up for the occasion, and its squares fill with colors, confetti, music, and masks. The event is organized by the GAP Association (Gruppo Attività Polivalenti Bitetto), with the patronage of the City of Bitetto, and over the years it has become a landmark for families and enthusiasts from all over the Bari area.

The grand masked parade

The highlight is the grand masked parade, which winds its way through the streets of the town. The gathering traditionally takes place in Piazza di Giesi, from where the procession sets off to cross the main streets of the town until it reaches Piazza Aldo Moro, the beating heart of the festivities. Here, the awards ceremony for the participating groups and the masked party take place, amidst dancing, music, and great popular participation.

Entertainment, gastronomy, and music

The program is designed to involve both adults and children. Throughout the day, there are magic shows, games, entertainment, balloon modeling, baby dance, mascots, and surprises for the little ones. The taste of tradition is not forgotten: tastings of typical Apulian dishes accompany the party, while the DJ set sets the rhythm of the evening, turning the square into a large open-air dance floor.

• Grand parade of masked groups through the town center
• Entertainment, shows, and games for children
• Tastings of traditional Apulian dishes
• DJ set and masked party in Piazza Aldo Moro
• Free admission and open to all ages

A Carnival in the spirit of community

Beyond the celebration, the Bitetto Carnival is above all a moment of community: associations, schools, and citizens participate in the preparation of costumes and masked groups, creating a tradition that renews the bond between generations every year. In a town linked to the figure of Blessed Giacomo and its historical heritage, the Carnival represents one of the most authentic and cheerful moments of city life, capable of attracting visitors even from neighboring towns in the province of Bari.