VenerArti

A festival celebrating women in the arts

VenerArti is the summer cultural festival of Parabita, a town in the lower Salento area in the province of Lecce, in the heart of Puglia. The name itself evokes Venus and the word art: the guiding theme of the event is indeed "The Feminine in Festival," a narrative of female talent and sensitivity expressed through music, theater, spoken word, and imagery. More than just a marketing event, it is a local celebration that has evolved over the years into a historic appointment for the Parabita community.

What to expect at VenerArti

The program, hosted primarily in the municipal park's event area, weaves together diverse artistic languages throughout the summer. Each evening offers a mosaic of proposals designed for all audiences:

• Concerts and live music, from singer-songwriters to local bands;
• Theater, comedy, cabaret, and stand-up;
• Talks, meetings, and poetry readings dedicated to the theme of the feminine;
• Exhibitions and art installations;
• Food and wine offerings and moments of conviviality under the Salento stars.

The Premio Veneri – La Strada dei Cantautori

The musical heart of the event is the Premio Veneri – La Strada dei Cantautori, a competition designed to bring out young singer-songwriter talent. The contest is divided into two categories, Giovanissimi (10-17 years old) and Giovani (18-30 years old), requiring original songs and featuring an audition phase that leads finalists to perform live in front of the municipal park audience. Prizes include musical productions and visibility opportunities, with juries composed of authors, producers, and professionals from the recording industry.

Beyond the stage: Estate Parabitana

VenerArti is part of the broader Estate Parabitana (Parabita Summer) schedule, promoted by the Municipality of Parabita together with the Pro Loco and local associations. Alongside evening shows, there is space for family and children's activities, such as play areas set up in the park, making the event a festive occasion for the entire community.

Parabita and Salento

At the foot of the Serra di Parabita, amidst centuries-old olive groves and just a few kilometers from the Ionian beaches, Parabita preserves a compact historic center and the famous Sanctuary of the Madonna della Coltura. Experiencing VenerArti means discovering an authentic, less touristy Salento, made of community, tradition, and the desire to be together on summer evenings.