Christmas in Puglia: The best places for Christmas

Updated at: 02-12-2024

How this content can help you:

  • You will explore the best Christmas markets in Puglia, from Bari to Lecce and the illuminated trulli of Alberobello.
  • You will discover Puglia's Christmas traditions, such as living nativity scenes and enchanting lights displays.
  • You will savor local culinary specialties, such as cartellate, pettole, and fine wines.
  • You will get to know the Christmas events and activities in the most picturesque cities of the region.
  • You will plan an unforgettable visit to experience the magic of Christmas in Puglia.
Christmas in Puglia: The best places for Christmas

Christmas in Puglia is a time of great magic, where ancient traditions, local culture, and the festive atmosphere come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience.

From cities illuminated by charming lights to living nativity scenes that bring historic villages to life, every corner of the region transforms into a fairytale setting.

The streets are filled with the aromas of traditional cuisine, with dishes rich in authentic flavors that bring the history and conviviality of the territory to the table. In Puglia, Christmas is not just a religious celebration, but a time to honor community, family, and age-old traditions.

Some of the best places to spend Christmas in Puglia are: Bari, Locorotondo, Alberobello, Brindisi, Lecce, Taranto, Ostuni, and Polignano.

In this article, you will find useful information about Christmas in Puglia, what to do during the holiday season, and the best places to celebrate Christmas.

Christmas in Puglia 2024

Update of October 27, 2024 on events and markets

Christmas 2024 in Puglia promises to be magical, with unmissable events and Christmas markets ready to light up the historic centers of the cities.

From December 1st, iconic locations such as Alberobello, Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare will kick off the celebrations, transforming into authentic Christmas villages.

The Christmas Markets in Puglia 2024 will offer a variety of artisanal products, unique decorations and gastronomic specialties. They will be the perfect opportunity to buy original gifts and immerse yourself in the typical Apulian flavors of the Christmas period. Between sweet stands, living nativity scenes and children's shows, every corner of the region promises a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In addition to the markets, Christmas in Puglia 2024 will bring with it folkloristic events and concerts in the castles, evocative lights and moments of pure tradition. Each city in Puglia will contribute to creating a complete Christmas experience, ideal for tourists and families.

Follow our updates in the coming days to discover the complete 2024 calendar of events and details on each 2024 market.

Christmas in Puglia what to do

Here are 5 things you absolutely must do during your Christmas holidays in Puglia:

Christmas in Puglia

Christmas in Puglia: Traditions, Magic and Culture

Christmas in Puglia is a time of profound magic, where ancient traditions, religious celebrations, cultural events, and gastronomic delights come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience. Every corner of the region transforms into an enchanting setting that celebrates local culture and community warmth.

Christmas Sparkling Lights in Cities and Villages in Puglia

Every city and village in Puglia is adorned with sparkling lights that illuminate streets and squares, turning historic centers into fairy-tale pathways. In Bari, Christmas begins with the feast of Saint Nicholas, the city's patron saint: the lighting of Christmas decorations fills the main streets with joy, marking the start of the celebrations.

Scorrano, known as the "City of Lights," offers luminous decorations that are true works of art, animated by light and music shows that attract visitors from all over Italy.

Living Nativity Scenes in Puglia: Tradition and Spirituality

A beloved symbol of Christmas in Puglia is the living nativity scene, which reenacts the Nativity and ancient crafts with actors in traditional costumes.

  • Gravina in Puglia: The nativity scene is set up in natural karst caves, creating a timeless atmosphere.
  • Alberobello: Hosts a living nativity among its iconic trulli, offering a unique setting.
  • Tricase: Famous for the historical accuracy of its representation, recreates biblical scenes and details of daily life in an immersive environment.

These living nativity scenes are unique opportunities to rediscover the history and roots of Puglia.

Christmas Markets in Puglia: Handicrafts and Local Products

The Christmas markets are a distinctive element of Puglia's Christmas traditions, where you can find typical products and local handicrafts.

  • Lecce and Ostuni: The stalls offer Christmas decorations, nativity figurines made of papier-mâché and terracotta, handmade jewelry, and scented candles.
  • Locorotondo: A small enchanting village where markets take place in narrow streets and squares among illuminated historical architectures, enriching the Christmas experience with unique charm.

Gastronomic Delights of Christmas in Puglia

Food is at the heart of Christmas celebrations in Puglia. The streets are filled with the aromas of traditional cuisine, with dishes that bring the region's history and passion to the table.

Typical Sweets:

  • Cartellate: Fried sweets covered with honey or cooked wine (vincotto).
  • Purcidduzzi: Small fried dough balls dipped in honey and sugar.
  • Pettole: Soft fried dough balls, sweet or savory, seasoned with honey, sugar, or anchovies.

Puglians also observe the tradition of eating "di magro" (meatless meals) during the holidays, with dishes based on codfish and other seafood recipes. Christmas lunches are accompanied by fine local wines like Primitivo and Negroamaro, enhancing the authentic flavors of regional cuisine.

Cultural and Religious Events of Christmas in Puglia

Locorotondo, street illuminated and decorated for Christmas

During the Christmas period, Puglia comes alive with cultural and religious events that enrich the holiday offerings.

  • Sacred music concerts: Resonate in churches and historic palaces, creating moments of deep spirituality.
  • Theatrical performances and Christmas carols: Engage the community and visitors in shared atmospheres.
  • Midnight Mass: Celebrations like the one in Bari's Cathedral unite faith and tradition.

Experiencing Christmas in Puglia: An Unforgettable Journey

Spending Christmas in Puglia means immersing oneself in a journey through traditions, flavors, and customs of a warm and hospitable land. Every city and village offers a unique glimpse into Puglian culture, with lights, nativity scenes, markets, and festivals that tell stories of family and community.

For those wishing to experience the holidays in a suggestive and emotionally rich setting, Christmas in Puglia represents an unforgettable experience. From illuminated landscapes to traditional dishes, from folk music to religious rites, this land offers a Christmas that leaves a deep mark in the heart of those who visit.

Christmas Magic in Puglia: Cities and villages to visit

Puglia offers a variety of ideal destinations to experience Christmas in an authentic and evocative way:

  • Locorotondo: Christmas lights, decorations, events and Christmas markets
  • Alberobello: Trulli decorated for Christmas in a fairytale setting.
  • Ostuni: Christmas lights and markets
  • Brindisi: markets and many events in the calendar of "Brindisi and the widespread Christmas"
  • Bari: Santa Claus Village with celebrations for San Nicola.
  • Lecce: The baroque city hosts the Fiera dei Pupi and lights up with Christmas lights.
  • Polignano a Mare: with the Meraviglioso Natale the historic center and the cliffs are decorated with lights.
  • Monopoli: The Carlo V Castle becomes the Christmas Village, with craft markets, shows and Santa Claus's house.
  • Acquaviva delle Fonti: Christmas market animated by bagpipers in traditional clothes, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.
  • Scorrano: Sand Nativity Scene

Christmas in Locorotondo

In the picturesque village of Locorotondo, in the province of Bari, Christmas is a special time when tradition, culture and architectural beauty intertwine to create an enchanting and welcoming atmosphere. This small Apulian village, famous for its characteristic white houses and narrow streets, transforms into a real Christmas village, giving visitors and residents a unique experience.

Christmas Locorotondo

The streets of Locorotondo are decorated with sparkling lights, garlands and Christmas-themed decorations that enhance the beauty of the local architecture, made of pointed roofs and stone walls. The main squares of the town, such as Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and Piazza San Giorgio, host imposing Christmas trees and large artisanal nativity scenes that represent the Nativity, often made with local materials such as wood and stone, by skilled local artisans.

Natale Locorotondo

Locorotondo hosts a series of cultural and religious events during Christmas. The Midnight Mass in the majestic Chiesa Madre is a moment of great devotion for both locals and visitors. In addition, Christmas music concerts, theatrical performances, and festive dinners enrich the cultural offering, creating an environment of celebration and sharing

In addition to the many Christmas markets there will be many events that you can consult in the official program of Christmas events Locorotondo

Natale Locorotondo

Things to do during Christmas in Locorotondo and surroundings

Christmas in Alberobello

From December 6th to January 6th you can spend Christmas in Alberobello for a unique experience. The Apulian village is transformed into a Christmas Village among the Trulli, offering unforgettable events for adults and children.

Children can live a magical dream by visiting Santa's House. Here they can meet him, deliver letters and take part in creative workshops.

You can go with the whole family on the ice rink, open from December 6th to January 6th. Skating among the trulli is an unmissable experience for those who love the winter atmosphere.

The spectacular Christmas lights illuminate Alberobello from December 5th to January 5th. Scenographic plays of light transform the streets and trulli into a fairy-tale place.

The Christmas Markets will offer artisanal products, local gastronomy and unique gifts.

Christmas in Bari

Where will the events of Christmas be held?

The events of Christmas in Bari will be hosted in Piazza del Ferrarese.

All the dates and events of Christmas in Bari

On 6 December in Bari there will be the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Piazza del Ferrarese.

A stage will be set up which will host various events during the month of December.

A large garden will be set up in Piazza del Ferrarese that will lead to the large illuminated tree. At the entrance to the square you will see a large green arched portal covered with lights. From here you can enter the garden which will be set up with lots of lights. A sort of wood where there will be video projections and sound diffusion.

In one area of ​​the square there will be an English glass and iron greenhouse, where you can find the Amgas infopoint, which took care of supporting the events and setting up the city of Bari. The greenhouse will be decorated with a beautiful Christmas stars. Nearby there will be a large luminous writing in metal wire: LOVE XMAS.

From 8 December to 28 December , every day for eight minutes, the tree will be lit with a show of music and lights.

Things to do near Bari during Christmas

Christmas in Ostuni

Christmas 2024 in Ostuni promises to be magical, with a rich program of events and Christmas markets that make the White City an unmissable destination in Puglia during the holidays.

Christmas in Ostuni is a fascinating time when the historic "White City" transforms into a true fairytale setting, combining centuries-old traditions with architectural beauty.

The heart of the historic center of Ostuni will be animated by street art performances, live music, and multimedia installations, creating a unique Christmas atmosphere. On December Sundays, the shopping center on Viale Pola will host white nights with music and entertainment for young and old.

Gastronomy lovers can immerse themselves in the Med Oil Festival on weekends in November, celebrating Apulian olive cultivation amidst agriculture, environment, and culinary tradition.

A captivating light park will be set up in the Municipal Villa, featuring light sculptures and shows to delight visitors. The program also includes Gospel concerts in the second half of December, special New Year's Eve events, and a symphony concert to usher in the new year.

Christmas Markets in Puglia

The Christmas markets in Puglia represent a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays in one of Italy's most fascinating regions.

Characterized by a blend of local traditions, authentic craftsmanship, and culinary delights, these markets offer unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors. The Christmas markets in Puglia are known for their selection of high-quality handcrafted products, made by local artisans who preserve centuries-old traditions.

Each market offers a variety of typical regional delicacies, such as taralli, sweet panzerotti, pasticciotti, fine wines, and olive oil.

An idea is to buy an original gift from one of the many markets you will find in Puglia.

Here is a list of some of the Christmas Markets in Puglia:

Bari – Christmas Market in Piazza Mercantile

Located in the heart of Bari, the Christmas Market in Piazza Mercantile is one of the most anticipated events of the season. With its illuminated stalls, it offers a wide range of handmade products, Christmas decorations, handcrafted toys, and Pugliese culinary specialties.

The square comes alive with live music performances, concerts, and activities for children, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Lecce – Christmas Fair in Piazza Sant'Oronzo

In the charming historic center of Lecce, the Christmas Fair in Piazza Sant'Oronzo stands out for its baroque elegance. The stalls offer local handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and typical gastronomic products such as taralli, traditional sweets, and fine wines.

Cultural events, creative workshops, and theatrical performances enrich the experience, making a visit to the market a complete experience.

What to do during Christmas in Lecce

Locorotondo - Christmas Markets

Christmas decorations in a historic center of the Itria Valley

From 28 November 2024 to 8 January 2025, the Christmas markets will be held that animate the streets of the historic center of Locorotondo. The Christmas markets of Locorotondo offer a wide selection of typical and artisanal products.

Here you can find handmade Christmas decorations, small nativity scenes, scented candles and artisanal jewelry. In addition, the stalls offer local gastronomic specialties, allowing visitors to savor the best of Puglia's culinary tradition: from crunchy taralli to cream-filled pasticciotti, to the fine local wines, among which the renowned Locorotondo DOC stands out, white and fresh, perfect to accompany the flavors of the holidays.

Alberobello - Christmas Market among the Trulli

Alberobello, famous for its trulli, hosts a unique Christmas market. The stalls, set among the characteristic cone-shaped buildings, offer local crafts, original Christmas decorations and typical local products.

From December 6, 2024 to January 6, 2025, Alberobello will host its traditional Christmas Markets, transforming the historic center into an enchanting Christmas Village among the Trulli. The wooden houses, set up in Largo Martellotta and in Villa Don Giacomo Donnaloja, will offer a wide range of typical Apulian products: taralli, olive oil, local wines, cheeses, Christmas sweets and delicacies such as pettole and panzarotti.

Among the stalls, visitors will be able to purchase local crafts, such as hand-painted ceramics, traditional fabrics and wood and stone sculptures. All this will be immersed in a unique atmosphere, thanks to sparkling lights, Christmas decorations and a rich program of events and shows.

The magic of the illuminated trulli and the Christmas lights create a fairytale setting, perfect for romantic walks and moments of relaxation.

Things to do during Christmas in Alberobello and surroundings

Ostuni – Christmas Market in the White City

Ostuni, known as the "White City," hosts a Christmas market that enhances the unique architecture of the historic center. The narrow streets and squares come alive with stalls selling crafts, gastronomic products, and Christmas decorations.

Events such as classical music concerts, light shows, and children's workshops contribute to creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

Things to do near Ostuni during Christmas

Martina Franca – Christmas Market in the Historic Center

Martina Franca, with its charming historic center, offers a Christmas market characterized by a wide selection of artisanal and gastronomic products.

The stalls display clothing, jewelry, Christmas decorations, and typical products such as cured meats, cheeses, and local wines. The event is enriched by live music performances, tastings, and activities for the whole family.

Trani – Christmas Market on the Seafront

Trani, with its picturesque seafront and majestic cathedral, hosts a Christmas market that combines the beauty of the sea with the festive atmosphere.

The stalls offer a variety of handicrafts, clothing, decorations, and gastronomic specialties. Events such as concerts, fireworks, and illuminated walks make the Trani market an ideal place to experience the magic of Christmas.

Brindisi - Christmas Market in Corte degli Artigiani

From December 6th to December 22nd, the Mercatini del Chiostro welcomes visitors with a selection of unique artisanal products. Here you can find decorations, original gifts and artifacts that tell the local tradition.

The Christmas Markets in Brindisi are the beating heart of the Christmas holidays. Located in the picturesque Corte degli Artigiani, they offer an authentic experience made of art, tradition and flavors.

Not just craftsmanship: the markets also offer a variety of gastronomic delicacies. From the inevitable Christmas sweets to typical dishes of the Apulian tradition, each stand is a journey into authentic flavors.

Consult the dates of the Christmas Events in Brindisi 2024 calendar to find out all the openings of the Mercatini del Chiostro.

For more information on the Christmas markets in Puglia see our article: Christmas markets in Puglia.

What to do during Christmas in Brindisi

The Nativity Scene in Puglia

Nativity scenes are very famous in Puglia and represent one of the most beloved and deep-rooted Christmas traditions in the region. This sacred art celebrates the birth of Jesus, reflecting the rich culture and local traditions of Puglia, integrating architectural, landscape, and artisanal elements typical of the area.

During Christmas in Puglia, cities are transformed into enchanted settings thanks to the nativity displays. Many nativity scenes are made of papier-mâché, a traditional material that allows for intricate details and durability.

Numerous exhibitions of large papier-mâché nativity scenes, created by specialized artists, are found in various cities, offering visitors unique and fascinating visual spectacles.

Some cities in Puglia are known for their characteristic living nativity scenes.

Christmas decorations on the streets of the small towns of Puglia

Living Nativity Scenes in Puglia

In addition to traditional static nativity scenes, Puglia boasts an extraordinary variety of living nativity scenes, bringing the story of the Nativity to life through engaging theatrical performances. Here are some of the most important and characteristic living nativity scenes in the region:

1. Tricase – Living Nativity Scene of Tricase

Every year, in Tricase, in the province of Lecce, a magnificent living nativity scene is set up, attracting thousands of tourists. This representation involves numerous local actors who portray the characters of the Nativity in a charming setting that recreates the village of Bethlehem.

The streets of Tricase come alive with merchants, shepherds, angels, and the Magi, offering a realistic and fascinating backdrop. Special events, such as sacred music concerts and children's workshops, enrich the experience, making the living nativity scene in Tricase an unmissable event.

2. Martina Franca – Living Nativity Scene in the Historic Center

Martina Franca, famous for its enchanting baroque historic center, hosts a particularly evocative living nativity scene. The representation takes place in the picturesque alleys of the center, integrating historical architectural elements with the story of the Nativity.

The participation of the local community is fundamental, with numerous volunteers contributing to the setup and staging, creating an authentic and engaging atmosphere.

3. Ostuni – Living Nativity Scene in the White City

Ostuni, known as the "White City," offers a living nativity scene that takes advantage of the unique beauty of its urban landscape. The representation of the Nativity takes place in charming locations such as the main squares and the inner courtyards of the trulli, with traditional costumes and detailed scenery.

The living nativity scene in Ostuni often includes interactive elements, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the story and actively participate in the events.

4. Galatina – The Oldest Living Nativity Scene in Puglia

In the Church of Santa Caterina in Galatina is one of the oldest and most renowned living nativity scenes in Puglia. This historical representation dates back many decades and is considered a cultural heritage of the region.

The living nativity scene in Galatina stands out for its attention to historical and religious details, with characters faithfully portraying the traditional figures of the Nativity and scenery that accurately reproduces the biblical setting.

5. Polignano a Mare – Living Nativity Scene by the Sea

Polignano a Mare, with its splendid seaside scenery, offers a unique living nativity scene that combines religious tradition with the natural beauty of the area. The representation takes place near the sea, integrating marine elements into the Nativity narrative.

This living nativity scene is particularly appreciated for its originality and its ability to blend the spirituality of Christmas with the charm of the Apulian coastal landscape.

6. Lecce – Living Nativity Scene in the Baroque Heart

Lecce, famous for its baroque style, also hosts a living nativity scene that takes full advantage of the majestic architecture of the city to create a spectacular backdrop.

The representation involves numerous actors and volunteers who portray the story of the Nativity at various points in the city, turning Lecce into an open-air theater. Side events, such as guided tours of the nativity scenes and sacred art exhibitions, complete the cultural offering during the Christmas season.

The Largest and Most Famous Traditional Nativity Scenes in Puglia

In addition to living nativity scenes, Puglia boasts a rich tradition of traditional nativity scenes that adorn churches, squares, and public spaces during the Christmas period. These nativity scenes, often made with fine materials and great attention to detail, depict scenes of the Nativity with elements typical of Puglian culture and landscape.

Here is an overview of the largest and most famous traditional nativity scenes in the region:

1. Nativity Scene in the Basilica of Santa Croce, Lecce

The nativity scene in the Basilica of Santa Croce is one of the most renowned in Puglia. In addition to the fresco of the Nativity, the nativity scene is made of papier-mâché and crafted with great mastery, including baroque architectural details that reflect the style of Lecce.

The figures are arranged in settings that not only depict the Nativity but also elements of local daily life, creating a blend of religious tradition and local culture.

2. Nativity Scene in Galatina

Located in the Church of Santa Caterina in Galatina, this nativity scene is considered the oldest in Puglia. Made with traditional materials and artisanal techniques, the nativity scene in Galatina is distinguished by its size and the precision of historical and religious details.

The figures, mainly made of wood and papier-mâché, are arranged in a setting that faithfully reproduces the biblical environment, with special attention to the costumes and accessories of the time.

3. Nativity Scene in Polignano a Mare

In Polignano a Mare, the traditional nativity scene harmoniously integrates with the city's splendid seaside setting. Made of papier-mâché and other local materials, the nativity scene represents the Nativity in a context that recalls the Puglian coastal landscape.

Elements such as olive trees, trulli, and the sea are included in the scenery, giving the nativity scene a unique and distinctive character. This nativity scene is particularly appreciated for its originality and its ability to blend religious tradition with natural beauty.

4. Nativity Scene in Martina Franca

In the historic center of Martina Franca, famous for its baroque style, the traditional nativity scene is a true work of art. Made on a large scale and with extraordinary attention to detail, the nativity scene in Martina Franca includes numerous figures and settings that represent the Nativity and village life.

The cobbled streets and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop, creating a suggestive and immersive atmosphere for visitors.

5. Nativity Scene in Alberobello

Alberobello, famous for its trulli, hosts a traditional nativity scene that stands out for integrating the typical elements of the trulli into the scenery. Made of papier-mâché and other natural materials, the nativity scene in Alberobello depicts the Nativity with the addition of trulli, olive trees, and rural Puglian landscapes.

This unique combination makes the nativity scene not only a religious representation but also a celebration of local architecture and culture.

6. Nativity Scene in the Cathedral of Ostuni

In the majestic Cathedral of Ostuni, the traditional nativity scene is an example of sacred Puglian art. Made with high-quality materials and presented on a grand scale, the nativity scene includes detailed figures and settings that represent the Nativity in a historical and cultural context.

The natural light filtering through the cathedral's windows gives the nativity scene a mystical and evocative atmosphere, further enhancing the beauty of the representations.

7. Nativity Scene in Brindisi

In Brindisi, the traditional nativity scene is notable for its impressive size and the variety of figures represented. Mainly made of papier-mâché, the nativity scene in Brindisi includes elements of local daily life, such as merchants, shepherds, and artisans, in addition to the classic figures of the Nativity.

This detailed and dynamic representation attracts numerous visitors and helps to keep the Christmas tradition alive in the city.

During the Christmas period, the Christmas markets in Puglia offer a wide variety of artisanal nativity scenes, allowing visitors to take home an authentic piece of Puglian tradition.

Christmas Cuisine in Puglia

Puglia is renowned for its culinary tradition, rich in authentic flavors, and during the Christmas season, this tradition reaches its peak with typical dishes that vary from town to town, but are united by a deep connection to the land and the sea. During the holidays, across the region, dishes are prepared that evoke the warmth of family gatherings, reflecting the seasonality of the ingredients and local customs. If you spend Christmas in Puglia, you can expect a unique culinary journey full of unforgettable flavors.

Appetizers and Christmas Specialties

Among the typical Christmas appetizers, pettole are a must, fried dough balls, golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Pettole can be enjoyed both sweet or savory: covered with sugar or honey, or served with anchovies, cherry tomatoes, or cauliflower. Fried olives and taralli are often present on tables as snacks to enjoy before the main courses.

Christmas First Courses

One of the most typical Christmas first courses in Puglia is pasta al forno, often made with homemade orecchiette, topped with meat ragù, meatballs, boiled eggs, and caciocavallo cheese. In the inland areas, it is traditional to prepare orecchiette with turnip tops or cavatelli with cod sauce. Puglian lasagna, stuffed with ground meat, strong ricotta, and provola cheese, is another staple of the Christmas table.

Main Courses

At Christmas, the lunch often features meat-based dishes. A classic Puglian Christmas lunch dish is roast lamb with potatoes or wild vegetables, often cooked with aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. Another specialty is lamb stew with peas or artichokes. Dishes like grilled pork capocollo and mixed roast meats served with local vegetable side dishes are also common.

Traditional Christmas Sweets

One of the most loved aspects of Christmas in Puglia is certainly the rich tradition of Christmas desserts. Among the most famous are:

  • Cartellate, thin strips of fried dough rolled into "roses" and then dipped in cooked wine or honey. They are a symbol of Puglian Christmas and represent the crown of thorns of Christ.
  • Purcidduzzi, small fried dough balls covered in honey and colorful sprinkles.
  • Sweet pettole, as a variation of the savory ones, often topped with sugar or honey.
  • Mustazzoli, shortcrust pastry sweets covered in chocolate glaze, flavored with honey and spices.
  • Torrone, made with Puglian almonds and honey, which can be soft or crunchy, often flavored with local citrus fruits.

Wines and Liqueurs

Christmas meals in Puglia are always accompanied by local wines, which are a source of pride for the region. Among the most appreciated are Primitivo di Manduria, Negroamaro, and Bombino Bianco. After the meal, it is traditional to enjoy Puglian amari and liqueurs, such as Amaro Salento, rosolio, or homemade limoncello

Christmas in Puglia

The Lights in the Main Cities of Puglia

Polignano a Mare – Luci d'Artista

Polignano a Mare, already famous for its spectacular cliffs, shines in a new light during the Christmas season thanks to the Luci d'Artista. In the area of Lama Monachile and the historic center, these illuminated artistic installations transform the town into a true Christmas village. Marine-themed light displays, angels, and stars adorn the streets, creating a perfect blend between the natural beauty of the landscape and the magic of the holidays.

Alberobello – Christmas Lights among the Trulli

Alberobello, famous for its trulli, turns into a fairytale setting during Christmas thanks to the lights decorating these ancient cone-shaped houses. The event “Natale tra i Trulli” is a must-see, where colored lights wrap around the trulli, creating a warm and magical atmosphere. The streets of the village are enriched by Christmas-themed light installations that make walking through the trulli a unique experience.

Locorotondo

Locorotondo, with its circular historic center, becomes a real “ring of light” during Christmas, with decorations following the distinctive shape of the city.

Gallipoli – Light Show

In Gallipoli, for example, an annual dancing light show is set up, with projections on the facades of historic buildings.

Ostuni – The Illuminated White City

Ostuni, known as the White City, becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season thanks to the lights that illuminate its white houses and historic squares. The narrow, winding streets fill with Christmas lights that create a spectacular contrast with the white architecture of the city. The combination of lights and the white buildings gives Ostuni a truly magical atmosphere.

Book your Christmas vacation in Puglia now to discover up close its traditions and local products. You will be fascinated by a magical Puglia, rich in history and art, that fully embraces the magic of Christmas.

Choose your dates, book your hotel, and get swept away by the magic of Christmas in Puglia.

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