Spring Carnival

A carnival that blossoms in spring

The Spring Carnival is the event that has given Crispiano, a town in the province of Taranto, Puglia, a fresh festive identity in recent years. The concept is as simple as it is original: take the carnival out of its traditional timeframe and celebrate it between late May and early June, when the mild climate and long days allow for evening parades in the open air, right in the heart of the historic center.

The event is organized by the Chitros Association, led by president Egidio Ippolito, with the support of the Municipality of Crispiano as part of the "Crispiano Creativa" municipal call for projects. In just a few editions, the festival has grown rapidly, attracting masked groups and performers from various Italian regions and even abroad.

Masks, performers, and no floats

What distinguishes this carnival from others is the absence of classic allegorical floats: the absolute protagonists here are the costumed performers, who bring the town streets to life with parades, dances, and choreography. The streets and squares are decorated with papier-mâché, scenic towers, and banners, turning the village into an open-air theater. The symbol of the event is Fantàsia, a giant four-meter-tall mask designed by Egidio Ippolito himself, positioned at the entrance to the town to welcome visitors.

Music, gastronomy, and solidarity

During the evenings, the parade route is punctuated by various sound stations that accompany the groups with music and entertainment. There is no shortage of culinary delights, featuring local specialties such as Apulian bombette and orecchiette. The festival also includes a charity lottery, with proceeds donated to social organizations in the Taranto area.

An identity-defining event for the region

Created to showcase creativity and a sense of community, the Spring Carnival has quickly become a highly anticipated event not only for the people of Crispiano but for the entire Taranto hinterland. The evening parades, the participation of groups from multiple regions, and the international dimension have made Crispiano, for a few days, the "capital" of a carnival unlike any other: one that blooms when the others have been over for months.