Epiphany Fair

The Befana Fair in Taranto

The Epiphany Fair is one of the most beloved and anticipated winter events in Taranto. Every year, between January 4th and 6th, the center of the Ionian city comes alive with the traditional Befana stalls: nougat, artisanal sweets, candies, dried fruit, and, most importantly, toys for the little ones. For generations of locals, this fair has signaled the conclusion of the Christmas festivities and the arrival of Epiphany.

A tradition that has often changed home

Over the last twenty years, the fair has moved several times: initially set up on Corso Italia towards Viale Magna Grecia, then in Piazza Garibaldi in the Borgo district, and later for a long time on Via Alto Adige. Today, it has found its permanent home in the central Piazza Maria Immacolata, extending along Via Mignogna in the heart of the Borgo Umbertino. This move to the city center, decided by the municipal administration as part of the Strategic Trade Plan, has brought the fair back to the city's shopping streets, just steps away from local businesses.

What to find at the stalls

The fair is reserved for two specific product categories: the food sector, dedicated to sweets and nougat, and the non-food sector, reserved for toys. The colorful stalls, filled with candies, almond brittle, crunchy treats, and last-minute Christmas gifts, create the warm, family-friendly atmosphere that has made this fair a classic Epiphany tradition in Taranto.

Epiphany in Taranto

The fair is part of the broader calendar of Christmas initiatives organized by the Municipality of Taranto, in the Province of Taranto, Apulia. On Epiphany day, the city traditionally hosts other festive moments, including street entertainment and performances in the Borgo, in an atmosphere that blends popular devotion, the folklore of the Befana, and the simple pleasure of strolling among the stalls. It is the perfect way to conclude the holidays before returning to daily life.