Vitigliano Carnival
Papier-mâché giants parade through the heart of Salento
About Vitigliano Carnival
A historic carnival in the heart of Salento
The Vitigliano Carnival is one of the most anticipated events in lower Salento. It takes place in the village of the same name in the municipality of Santa Cesarea Terme, in the province of Lecce, Puglia, and represents a tradition that has been established for over forty years. Organized by the Vitillianum Cultural, Social and Recreational Association, it is recognized as one of the 19 most important carnivals in Puglia and transforms the streets of the small village into a stage of color, music, and merriment every year.
The papier-mâché giants
The beating heart of the event is the majestic papier-mâché floats, authentic moving monuments created after months of hard work, passion, and technical skill by local master artisans. The attention to detail, the explosion of color, and the sophisticated mechanical scenography make each float an ephemeral work of art that remains etched in the memories of those who witness the parades. Alongside the floats, masquerade groups and participants in the historical pageant parade, involving both adults and children in a collective ritual that unites all generations.
A program for all ages
The Vitigliano Carnival is not just about parades: the program includes the famous Treasure Hunt that enlivens the two days, carnival games for children, entertainment, shows, and evening concerts in the square featuring artists from the Salento and Puglia music scene. The awards ceremony for the floats and masquerade groups traditionally closes the festival in an atmosphere of joyful popular participation.
Between thermal baths and the sea
The setting is the evocative Santa Cesarea Terme, a renowned spa town overlooking the Adriatic, and its village of Vitigliano, nestled in the hinterland of the Capo di Leuca. The event is sponsored by the Municipality of Santa Cesarea Terme and the Terme di Santa Cesarea, and is a precious opportunity to discover the authenticity of Salento during the winter season, far from the beach crowds.
Vitigliano Carnival — edition 2026
48th edition — February 21 and 22, 2026
The 48th edition of the Vitigliano Carnival, dedicated to the memory of Raffaele Guida, brought the village of Santa Cesarea Terme to life with two days full of events. The absolute stars were the majestic papier-mâché floats, accompanied by the historical pageant and masquerade groups.
Program
- Saturday, February 21 — 2:00 PM first part of the Treasure Hunt; 5:00 PM historical pageant and grand parade of papier-mâché floats; 8:00 PM concert by Zinharua feat. Puccia (voice of Après La Classe).
- Sunday, February 22 — 8:30 AM second part of the Treasure Hunt; 5:00 PM parade of floats and masquerade groups; 7:30 PM entertainment with Frakatame and final awards ceremony in the square.
The event, among the 19 most important carnivals in Puglia, was held under the patronage of the Municipality of Santa Cesarea Terme and the Terme di Santa Cesarea.
Programme Vitigliano Carnival 2026
Highlights Vitigliano Carnival 2026
Prices Vitigliano Carnival 2026
Practical information — Vitigliano Carnival
How to get there
Vitigliano is a village of Santa Cesarea Terme, on the Adriatic coast of Salento. By car, it can be reached via the SS275 towards Leuca, taking the exit for Santa Cesarea Terme and continuing to the village. The reference railway station is Lecce, which is connected by Ferrovie del Sud Est bus lines. The nearest airport is Brindisi.
Admission and tips
Parades and events in the square are free of charge. Given the turnout, it is recommended to arrive early and park in the designated areas at the entrance to the town. Comfortable and warm clothing is recommended for the winter days.
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Where does it take place — Vitigliano Carnival
Vitigliano (centro abitato)