Blue Dinner in the Old Town

The Blue Dinner: an all-blue picnic in the Blue Town

The Blue Dinner in the Old Town is one of the most evocative summer events in Casamassima, in the province of Bari, in the heart of Puglia. Organized by the Pro Loco Casamassima, the event turns the historic center into a large open-air lounge where everything—tables, tablecloths, tableware, candles, outfits, and even the food—is dressed in infinite shades of blue.

Why blue?

Casamassima is known throughout Italy as the Blue Town: its medieval Old Town, a maze of alleys, courtyards, and low houses, is entirely painted in blue, a color traditionally used to ward off epidemics and protect homes. This unique chromatic identity has made the village one of the most photographed in Southern Italy and inspired the Blue Dinner, which celebrates its charm alongside that of other famous 'blue cities' of the world, such as Chefchaouen in Morocco, with which Casamassima is twinned.

How the evening works

The format is that of an elegant participatory picnic: each group brings their own table, chairs, tableware, and homemade dishes, strictly in shades of azure and light blue, while respecting the environment by completely banning plastic. The alleys light up, and video projections come to life on the ancient walls, enveloping participants in an almost dreamlike atmosphere.

• All-blue dress code for guests
• Tables set up along the streets of the Old Town
• Folk music and traditional Puglian dances
• Homemade, strictly themed gastronomy

The '50 Shades of Blue' contest

The playful heart of the event is the '50 Shades of Blue' contest, which awards prizes for the most beautiful table, the most brilliant outfit, and the most captivating blue dish. It is a way to involve residents and visitors in a creative challenge that enlivens every edition, with only homemade dishes allowed in the competition.

An identity-defining event for Casamassima

Much more than just a dinner, the initiative has become a symbol of the identity of the Municipality of Casamassima and an opportunity to enhance the heritage of its historic center, attracting visitors from across the Metropolitan City of Bari and all of Puglia. The evening breeze, soft lights, and pervasive blue color offer one of the most original experiences in the Puglian summer calendar.