December 26, 2008 through February 24, 2009 Carnevale di Putignano Dec 18, 2008

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Carnevale di Putignano is one of the oldest in Europe and it’s the longest since it starts on December 26th, right after Christmas. It’s assumed that it originated from the religious ceremony. It’s known that on December 26, 1394 they solemnly moved the remains of Saint Stephan from Monopoly to Putignano. This date is considered to be an official birthday of Carnevale di Putignano. The main character of the carnival is Farinella, a clown in colored clothes and a hat with jingles.

In the past Farinella used to be dressed in white and green, in colors of the city, and his three-ended hat symbolized three hills where Putignano is situated. Farinella would often try to reconcile a cat and a dog, or animals, symbolizing conflicts between residents of the city. On December 26, when carnival officially starts in the city the fun begins. Almost every day there is a concert or performance. However, most important processions come on three last Sundays before the Lent. These colorful parades are most attractive shows for tourists during the carnival.

Since it’s common to make fun of authorities during the carnival, decorations of platforms would often be on the subject of national problems. The carnival is over on Fat Tuesday. After that a great feast is held, it’s the last opportunity to eat as much as you can before the Lent. The feast is over at midnight. Detailed information about the program of the carnival is posted on the internet in fall.