Incanto – Christmas in Corato

The Christmas that lights up the old town of Corato

When December arrives, Corato—a town in the Murgia hinterland in the Province of Bari, Puglia—dons its most magical attire. "Incanto – Christmas in Corato" is the festive calendar promoted by the City of Corato: for over a month, from the first lights of December until Epiphany, the historic center and main streets fill with illuminations, markets, street performances, music, and traditional scents. It is not just a single event, but a true widespread program designed to make the city feel like a festive village.

The Santa Claus Village, the beating heart of the festival

The most beloved attraction is the Santa Claus Village, set up in the heart of the old town. An itinerant path populated by dozens of performers—elves, gnomes, and fairy-tale characters—accompanies adults and children among glowing houses, workshops, and the unmissable Santa's house. It is the place where Corato families and visitors meet every evening, amidst photos with Santa Claus and fairy-tale atmospheres.

Markets, crafts, and Corato's flavors

Along Via Roma and in the town squares, you will find artisan markets, featuring handmade creations, gift ideas, and local products. Gastronomy is a major highlight: traditional Christmas specialties scent the streets, from fried treats like pettole and cartellate to sweet taralli and hot chocolate. A special mention goes to "Se Frisce Quaratine," the fried food festival in Piazza Abbazia, where panzerotti, fried vegetables, fish, and sweets showcase the popular soul of Corato.

Music, shows, and traditions

The program alternates between concerts in the squares, street performances, moments dedicated to children, exhibitions, and appointments linked to religious and popular traditions, such as the celebrations for Saint Lucy. The main squares—Piazza Abbazia, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, and Piazza Matteotti—become open-air stages, with the lighting of the tree and illuminations marking the official start of the festivities.

A community event with free admission

"Incanto" was born as a festival of the city and for the city: all events are free of charge and involve associations, merchants, and local entities. The initiative is organized by the City of Corato with the patronage of the Puglia Region and the Bari Chamber of Commerce, confirming a project that aims to enhance the historic center and make Corato a key destination for Christmas in Puglia.