Casarano Carnival

The Casarano Carnival

The Casarano Carnival is the annual winter event that transforms the center of Casarano into an explosion of color, music, and joy. Organized by the Pro Loco of Casarano with the patronage of the City of Casarano, the event draws families, children, and visitors from across Salento, establishing itself as one of the most cherished popular festivals in this corner of the Lecce province, in Apulia.

Allegorical floats and costumed groups

The heart of the festival is the parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups, which travel through the town streets to gather in Piazza Indipendenza, the hub of the festivities. Masks, costumes, confetti, and streamers accompany an afternoon of pure fun, with prizes awarded to the most original and creative costumes. Music and entertainment keep the atmosphere lively from the early afternoon until evening.

The tradition of the Pentolaccia

The Casarano Carnival is uniquely tied to the Pentolaccia, an ancient custom in Salento that marks the end of the Carnival period on the Sunday following Shrove Tuesday. The breaking of the pot suspended in the square, filled with sweets and surprises, is the moment most awaited by children and represents a playful and liberating farewell to Carnival before the start of Lent.

A festival for the whole family

Designed as an inclusive and welcoming event, the Casarano Carnival combines spectacle, folklore, and popular tradition in a setting suitable for all ages. Entertainment for children, live music, DJ sets, and games make the day a shared celebration for the entire Casarano community.

Casarano and Salento

Casarano is a lively town in the lower Salento area, in the province of Lecce, known for its artisanal traditions and historical-religious heritage, just a few kilometers from the beaches of the Ionian and Adriatic coasts. Experiencing the Casarano Carnival means connecting with the hospitality and spirit of togetherness that define Salento's villages during one of the most authentic and well-attended seasons of the year.