Float parades, costumes, and music through the streets of Lucera
The Lucera Carnival is one of the most anticipated winter events in Lucera, located in the heart of the province of Foggia, in Puglia. Each year, this city in the Capitanata region dresses up for the occasion, and its historic center transforms into a large open-air theater, brought to life by papier-mâché floats, costumed groups, and an infectious atmosphere that captivates both young and old.
The highlight is the parade of allegorical floats, which sets off from Piazza Matteotti and travels through the main streets of the town center. The floats, the result of months of hard work by local associations, are accompanied by costumed groups, performers, and elaborate sets that make the procession vibrant and engaging. Along the route, there is no shortage of traveling musical performances and live entertainment, designed to accompany families, young people, and children on a day of pure joy.
The party rhythm is kept alive by DJ sets that keep the city dancing until evening; artists featured in recent editions include Gianni Viola and DJ Costa. The combination of parades, costumes, and music makes the Lucera Carnival an event with a strong local identity, capable of bringing the entire community out into the streets.
The event is held under the patronage of the City of Lucera and is the result of collaboration between various local entities: Pro Loco Lucera APS, the I Cavalieri del Fuoco association, ASCD Arte Apulia, and the Strumenti e Figure association. The true stars of the festival are the citizens themselves, who are invited to take part in the costumed procession.
Part of the rich landscape of carnivals in the Foggia area, alongside those of Manfredonia and other provincial towns, the Lucera Carnival retains its authentically local character: a heartfelt and well-attended town festival where the tradition of papier-mâché meets the desire to come together. For those visiting Lucera, a city of art famous for its Swabian-Angevin Fortress and Roman Amphitheater, the Carnival is also an opportunity to discover the historic center in a festive and lively guise.
The 2026 Lucera Carnival brought the center of Lucera to life on Saturday, February 14. The gathering was scheduled for 3:30 PM in Piazza Matteotti, the starting point for the parade of allegorical floats that crossed the city's main streets, turning it into a large open-air theater.
Papier-mâché floats, costumed groups, and scenic installations created a colorful and engaging procession, designed for families, young people, and children. Along the route, musical moments and live shows alternated, while the rhythm of the party was entrusted to the DJ sets of Gianni Viola and DJ Costa.
Organized by: Pro Loco Lucera APS, A.P.S. I Cavalieri del Fuoco, ASCD Arte Apulia, and Associazione Strumenti e Figure, with the patronage of the City of Lucera.
Lucera is located about 18 km from Foggia and is well-connected by the highway. By car, it can be reached via the SS17; by train, the reference station is Foggia, from which connecting buses to Lucera depart. The gathering point and the start of the parade are in Piazza Matteotti, in the historic center.
The event takes place along the city streets and is free to attend. During the parade, some streets in the center may be closed to traffic: it is recommended to park in areas outside the historic center.
An event suitable for families and children. Wearing a costume to join the procession is highly encouraged. For updated dates and times, it is advisable to check the channels of the Pro Loco Lucera and the Municipality.
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Centro storico di Lucera
Piazza Matteotti, 71036 Lucera