Polignano Carnival – Meravigliosa Maschera

The Polignano a Mare Carnival

The "Meravigliosa Maschera" Polignano Carnival is one of the most anticipated events of the Apulian winter. Every year, between late February and early March, the historic center of Polignano a Mare, in the Province of Bari, fills with allegorical floats, confetti, and masks for a festival that delights both young and old. The event is organized by the Associazione Meravigliosa Maschera Polignanese in collaboration with the Befana Marinara / Pescarello Scherzarello Committee, under the patronage of the Municipality of Polignano a Mare.

Allegorical floats and parades

The heart of the festival lies in the allegorical float parades, handcrafted by local artisans in the months leading up to the Carnival. These papier-mâché giants come to life as they travel through the city's main streets, accompanied by dance troupes, mascots, and costumed performers. Themes range from satire to fantasy, featuring characters from aliens to cartoon stars, much to the delight of the children lining the route.

Pescarello Scherzarello, the mask of Polignano

The symbol of the city's Carnival is Pescarello Scherzarello, the official mask of Polignano a Mare, recognized by municipal resolution in 2008. Rooted in the town's maritime tradition and the Befana Marinara festival, this figure represents Puglia at meetings of the National Coordination of Italian Masks and accompanies every edition of the event with its cheerful and playful spirit.

Music, entertainment, and guests

Beyond the parades, the Polignano Carnival offers live music evenings, DJ sets, and performances in the main squares, featuring Apulian artists, comedians, and content creators. The atmosphere is that of a classic local festival: crowded squares, food stalls, traditional carnival sweets, and a great sense of community under the Adriatic sky.

A Carnival in the heart of Puglia

Experiencing Carnival in Polignano a Mare means combining festive fun with the beauty of one of Puglia's most evocative villages, famous for its houses perched above the sea and the statue of Domenico Modugno. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the historic center off-season, wandering through alleys, scenic terraces, and the vibrant colors of the floats.