Notti dei Giganti di Carta

The Putignano Carnival returns in summer

In Putignano, a town in the Murgia area of the Bari province, the Carnival is more than just a winter celebration: it is an identity that stays with the community all year round. The Notti dei Giganti di Carta is its summer manifestation, an event that brings papier-mâché and the Farinella mask back to the heart of the old town during the evenings of early July, when the historic center lights up with music and color.

"Il Borgo Animato"

The core of the event is "Il Borgo Animato", which turns the squares and alleys of Putignano's historic center into a vibrant hub of conviviality, art, music, and folklore. It is a simple and authentic carnival experience, deeply rooted in local cultural traditions and tied to the history of the city and its inhabitants. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you will encounter jugglers, contortionists, and street performers, while art and craft stalls alternate with stands offering delicious Apulian food and wine.

Folk music and dancing under the stars

Music is the absolute star of the show: in Piazza Santa Maria La Greca, traditional sounds resonate as groups lead the audience in rediscovering folk dances, with marathons of pizzica and tamurriata and percussion that heat up the night. Meanwhile, in Piazza Plebiscito, DJ sets take over with ska, Balkan, and reggae beats, creating a party that bridges rural roots and the desire to dance until late.

A community event

The event is promoted by the Associazione Trullando, with the patronage of the Municipality of Putignano, the Province of Bari, and the Puglia Region. It represents a way to keep the spirit of the Putignano Carnival alive even in summer: that unique Apulian ability to turn a celebration into a collective experience, open to both residents and visitors.

Why attend

• Experience the atmosphere of Europe's oldest Carnival in its summer version.
• Discover the historic center of Putignano brought to life by artists, music, and papier-mâché.
• Dance the pizzica and tamurriata in the squares of the old town.
• Savor the traditional food and wine specialties of Puglia.