Squinzano Carnival / Carnevalissimo

The Squinzano Carnival

Every year, between February and March, the town of Squinzano transforms into an open-air stage for the Salento Carnival. The event, held in the province of Lecce in the heart of Puglia, brings together two traditions deeply rooted in the community: the Squinzano Carnival city parade, with its allegorical floats and masks parading through the streets of the center, and Carnevalissimo, the series of parties and masquerade balls hosted at the Auditorium on Via Brindisi.

The parade: allegorical floats and masks in the town center

The most anticipated moment is the grand parade that crosses the town center: masked groups, caparisoned horses, an allegorical marching band leading the procession, and floats built by local volunteers turn the streets of Squinzano into a collective celebration. The route winds from the Maria Regina Parish to Piazza Vittoria, where the day concludes with the traditional Pentolaccia, the ancient custom that marks the end of the Carnival. The organization is managed by the I Cavalieri di Quinzio association in collaboration with the Municipality and local parishes, involving families, young people, and local businesses.

Carnevalissimo at the Auditorium on Via Brindisi

Alongside the parade, Carnevalissimo offers a rich calendar of indoor events at the Auditorium on Via Brindisi. The program alternates between afternoon parties for younger children, gatherings for catechism and youth groups, masquerade evenings for young people and adults, and live concerts ranging from swing to rock and roll. There is also a pajama party for elementary school children and awards for the most beautiful and original costumes.

A celebration for the whole community

The Squinzano Carnival is, above all, a community event: born to restore a tradition that had been lost for several years, it now involves thousands of people, including residents and visitors from neighboring towns. Gadgets for children, entertainment, music, and the participation of the municipal administration and local associations make it an event capable of uniting different generations in the spirit of joy.

Squinzano and Salento

Located just a few kilometers from Lecce and the Adriatic coast, Squinzano is a lively town in northern Salento, known for its wine, its band tradition, and its deep attachment to local folk festivals. The Carnival represents one of the most cherished moments of the local calendar and an opportunity to discover the hospitality and folklore of this corner of Puglia.