Living Nativity of Cellamare

The Living Nativity of Cellamare

In the heart of the Bari Metropolitan City, the small village of Cellamare preserves one of the most heartfelt Christmas traditions in the Apulian hinterland. Every year, between late December and Epiphany, the historic center transforms into a charming open-air Bethlehem: this is the Living Nativity of Cellamare, which reached its sixteenth edition in 2025.

A village that becomes Bethlehem

Along the alleys and squares of the old town, over 70 performers in period costumes bring scenes of daily life from times past to life. Blacksmiths, carpenters, spinners, and bakers revive ancient crafts, offering visitors a glimpse into the gestures and sounds of a distant farming community. The entirely pedestrian route leads the public to the Nativity scene, the spiritual heart of the event, reconstructed to encourage reflection and contemplation before the mystery of Jesus' birth.

Traditional flavors

The walk through the stone houses is punctuated by 21 food and wine stalls, where you can taste local traditional products: fritters, roasted chestnuts, bean stews, and new wine. It is an opportunity to rediscover the authentic flavors of Puglia in a warm and convivial atmosphere.

Faith, community, and territory

Organized by the Santa Maria Annunziata Parish with the patronage of the Municipality of Cellamare, the Living Nativity is not just a religious representation, but a moment of strong cohesion for the entire community. Dozens of volunteers—including performers, artisans, and organizers—work together for weeks to set up an event that combines faith, popular tradition, and local promotion. Admission is free and open to both locals and tourists.

When to visit

The 2025-2026 edition took place over three evenings—December 27 and 30, 2025, and January 5, 2026—from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The dates, traditionally concentrated between the Christmas period and the eve of Epiphany, are announced year by year by the parish on its social media channels.