Terranovese Carnival

The Carnival that paints the Tavoliere in color

In the heart of the Tavoliere delle Puglie, just a few kilometers from Lake Lesina, the small town of Poggio Imperiale (Province of Foggia) hosts one of its most cherished traditions: the Terranovese Carnival. The name is no coincidence. Founded in 1759 by Prince Placido Imperiale, the town was dubbed 'Terra nova' (New Land) by local farmers, and to this day, its residents proudly call themselves terranovesi (or tarnuìse in the local dialect). It is this identity that the Carnival honors every year.

Allegorical floats and masks in the town center

The highlight of the event is the parade of allegorical floats that winds through the town streets. For the occasion, traffic is diverted and main roads are closed in the afternoon, allowing the floats, masked groups, and young performers to parade safely through the crowds. A special role is reserved for local schoolchildren, who dress up in themed costumes each year, performing choreography and group dances in Piazza Placido Imperiale—the beating heart of the festivities—amidst showers of confetti and music.

The food festivals that close the celebration

Like any good Southern Italian Carnival, the Terranovese edition has a strong gastronomic soul. Carnival Sunday concludes with a grand sausage festival, while Shrove Tuesday marks the end of the festivities with the distribution of porchetta sandwiches. These are convivial moments where the entire community gathers in the square to bid farewell to the Carnival season, enjoying the genuine flavors of the Capitanata region and shared joy.

A deep-rooted tradition

The Terranovese Carnival is a 'small and curious' celebration, little known outside local borders but brimming with vitality. Its editions have been held for decades; as early as 2012, it was already celebrating its 47th year. It may not be a massive carnival like those in Putignano or Manfredonia, but its charm lies precisely in this village-scale dimension: it is a celebration of a community that recognizes itself in its own history and brings it to life on its streets.

When it takes place

The event is traditionally held on the last Sunday of Carnival and Shrove Tuesday, featuring afternoon float parades and evening food festivals. It is a perfect opportunity to discover an authentic corner of Northern Puglia, nestled between the Gargano and the Tavoliere, far from the most beaten tourist paths.