Carnevale in Allegria in Locorotondo

Carnival in the heart of the Itria Valley

The Carnevale in Allegria is the grand masquerade festival of Locorotondo, one of Italy's most beautiful villages in the province of Bari, in the heart of the Apulian Itria Valley. Every February, the historic center, with its characteristic cummerse (houses with pitched roofs) and whitewashed narrow streets, transforms into an open-air stage filled with confetti, costumes, and music.

Papier-mâché floats

The most anticipated moment is the parade of allegorical floats, crafted entirely from papier-mâché by local artists and associations. Each masked group interprets a different theme, often inspired by cartoons, films, and fairy tales, creating a festive procession that winds through the main streets to conclude in the central square. The papier-mâché work is a true craft that keeps volunteers and young people busy for weeks before the event.

U Monacidd, the traditional mask

The symbol of the Locorotondo Carnival is U Monacidd, the town's typical mask: a mischievous and playful sprite who, according to local legend, embodies the witty and cheerful spirit of the inhabitants. The mask was born from a school competition and has become the recognizable face of the festival over the years.

A community celebration

The Carnevale in Allegria is promoted by the Municipality of Locorotondo with the Departments of Culture, Tourism, and Youth Policies, together with the Associazione Carnevale tra le Cummerse di Locorotondo and the collaboration of local schools, including the "G. Marconi – G. Oliva" Comprehensive Institute and the "Basile Caramia – Gigante" Agricultural and Hotel Institute. It is a deeply intergenerational event that involves children, young people, and the elderly in an atmosphere of shared participation and creativity.

Why it's worth it

• Completely free admission, open to all ages
• Hand-crafted papier-mâché floats made by local artists
• Unique setting among the cummerse of one of Italy's most beautiful villages
• Free Party dedicated to schools and live musical groups