Pentolaccia Casamassimese

The Pentolaccia Casamassimese: The Carnival of the pignata

The Pentolaccia Casamassimese is the most iconic Carnival celebration in Casamassima, a town in the Metropolitan City of Bari, Apulia. Every year, between February and March, the town center bursts into color with a parade of allegorical papier-mâché floats, masked groups, and music, drawing thousands of spectators to witness the ritual that gives the festival its name: the breaking of the great Pentolaccia.

Origins and the Pegnate tradition

The festival is rooted in an ancient local Lenten ritual known as the Pegnate (the pignata): an old terracotta pot filled with dried fruit was hung in the square and broken by blindfolded participants. Building on this folk tradition, the Pro Loco of Casamassima launched the modern Pentolaccia in 1977, evolving it over time into a major community Carnival featuring floats, processions, and competitions.

A Historical Carnival of Italy

The cultural significance of the event has earned it prestigious honors, including the Medal of the High Patronage of the President of the Republic and, since 2016, its inclusion among the Historical Carnivals of Italy. The festival is made even more unique by its official mascot, Calascione, who joins in all the scheduled activities.

What to see

• Allegorical float parades made of papier-mâché, true masterpieces created by local artisans;
• Masked groups and competitions for the best float, group, and costume;
• Children's Pentolaccia, an event dedicated to the little ones with animated storytelling and the breaking of smaller pots;
• The Grand Finale featuring the opening of the Great Pentolaccia in the square, amidst confetti, sweets, and gadgets;
• Food area and fairground rides, DJ sets, and musical entertainment.

Organizers

The Pentolaccia is the result of the hard work of the Pro Loco and local papier-mâché associations, including Carneval'arte - Creazione e Tradizione, I Maestri della Cartapesta, and the Cartapestai Casamassimesi, with the support of the Municipality, local schools, and cultural and sports organizations. Admission to all events is free.