Christmas in the City

Christmas in the City in Acquaviva delle Fonti

Christmas in the City is the festive event series that transforms Acquaviva delle Fonti, a town in the Metropolitan City of Bari in Puglia, into a vibrant stage for music, traditions, and community spirit every December. The festival is promoted by the Municipality of Acquaviva delle Fonti alongside the Pro Loco Curtomartino tourist association and numerous local groups, who fill the historic center with festive lights, sounds, and scents.

A month of widespread events

The program is not confined to a single location but embraces the city's landmarks: from the Austacio Busto Civic Museum to the Teatro Luciani, and from the Cathedral to the Sala Colafemmina, as well as the streets and squares of the historic center. The schedule includes concerts, theatrical performances, creative workshops, film screenings, exhibitions, and food and wine events, designed for both adults and children.

Music, tradition, and gastronomy

The festival kicks off with the traditional pettole festival, celebrating the iconic local fried dough, served with wine and sweets in the town squares. Alongside these traditions, the program features concerts at the Teatro Luciani and other city venues, as well as gospel shows, jazz evenings, and family-friendly activities. The Dancing Fountains in Piazza Garibaldi are a highly anticipated highlight, with water displays that enchant visitors of all ages.

For families and children

• Santa's House and creative workshops for children
• Christmas-themed film screenings at the Sala Colafemmina
• Markets, exhibitions, and guided tours of the city's heritage
• Events dedicated to the Befana around Epiphany

A celebration for the whole community

With free admission to most events, Christmas in the City is one of the most cherished highlights of the Acquaviva delle Fonti calendar: a wonderful opportunity to experience the historic center during the most magical time of the year and rediscover Apulian traditions in a festive community atmosphere. The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been announced; the program is typically unveiled at the beginning of December.