Puglia is one of Italy’s most beautiful and vibrant regions at any time of year, however during fall, it has something truly special to offer. Thanks to its many seasonal events and festivals, each of which is unique in its own way, Puglia offers visitors a wonderfully rich cultural and culinary experience that never fails to impress.
1. Festa di San Martino (St. Martin’s Day)
One of the most iconic fall festivals in Puglia is St. Martin’s Day, known locally as Festa di San Martino. Held on 11th November, this traditional celebration has long been held to mark not only the agricultural year’s end, but also the commencement of the region’s wine season.
Held right across the region, this fantastic and unique event sees towns and villages hosting feasts where locals and visitors alike can sample traditional dishes and roasted chestnuts, and of course, try the delicious locally-produced wine. There are also parades as well as live music, making this festival especially vibrant, lively and exciting.
Some of the best places to experience the celebrations include the romantic village of Specchia, where the picturesque and scenic backdrop make the occasion even more special. The town of Leverano is another must-visit spot on St. Martin’s Day. Famous for its local wine production, it’s one of the top places to taste the Novello, or first wine of the season.
Meanwhile, northern Apulia’s Ischitella commemorates the day with pan-fried olives and toasted bread served with delicious caciocavallo cheese, which simply has to be sampled.
2. La Festa dell’Uva (Grape Festival)
Held between late September and early October, the Grape Festival or Festa dell’Uva is one of the best celebrations of the year for those who are wine connoisseurs. Many towns across the region host events that commemorate the importance of Puglia’s grape harvest, however two of the most impressive celebrations can be found in Manduria and Locortondo where you can not only taste the local wine, but sample tasty cuisine from food stalls and dance to live music.
Salice Salentino and Primitivo di Manduria are two of the top local wines, and there’s no better time to try them than during the annual Grape Festival.
3. La Sagra del Fungo (Mushroom Festival)
Many of Puglia’s traditional festivals centre around food and drink, but the Sagra del Fungo festival is dedicated specifically to mushrooms. The region places great importance on its mushroom harvest, and many local dishes contain these delicious fungi.
Held during the month of October, Mushroom Festival events are held in several towns across the region, but most notably in Borge Celano and Alberobello. As you would imagine, the activities to enjoy during the event include cooking demonstrations, the sale of local produce and, of course, the opportunity to taste a variety of delicious mushroom-based dishes, including taralli – tasty little rings flavoured with fennel, pepper, onions, and, of course, mushrooms.
4. Fiera di San Nicola (St. Nicholas Fair)
Held between 29th September and 1st October in Bari, the Fiera di San Nicola is a festival to celebrate the town’s patron saint, St Nicholas. As you’d imagine, as this is a religious event, you can experience religious processions as part of the celebrations, but there’s a lot more to enjoy too, including cultural events, the opportunity to buy local crafts, and to browse lively market stalls.
5. La Fiera del Levante
Held in Bari in mid-September, this trade far is one ofthe biggest in the Mediterranean region. Whether you’re visiting La Fiera del Levante for business or pleasure, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy. In fact, there are plenty of opportunities to attend business meetings, cultural events, and exhibitions, and then, after a busy day of networking, you can dedicate yourself to leisure by attending a concert, sampling local food and drink or participating in the exciting entertainment programme.
6. Sagra della Castagna (Chestnut Festival)
Across the Gargano area and Daunia Mountains, you’ll find towns celebrating the Sagra della Castagna, or Chestnut Festival between late October and early November. Traditionally, the chestnut harvest has been a great cause for celebration in this part of Puglia, and activities include roasting chestnuts, preparing and sharing chestnut-based dishes, and demonstrating local crafts.
Experiencing Puglia In Fall
Each of Puglia’s fall festivals showcases a different side of the region’s culinary and cultural heritage, making this the perfect time to visit. There’s no better time to start planning your trip, so get in touch to see your accommodation options!
Renting a car is often the best way to get around Puglia to attend the various festivals, but there are local taxis as well as a local bus system to help you explore the region. When you book a luxury tour with us, you won’t need to worry about logistics as our local driver will transport you from place to place including any daily excursions you book. This is a relief especially in the off season where not all trains and busses run in the south of Italy.
Etiquette to be mindful of in Puglia
Don’t forget, though, that you should always remember the importance of good etiquette when visiting Puglia, and especially when attending a festival. These events are of great importance to the locals, so you should take care not to offend and to show gratitude for being able to celebrate alongside them.
Respect religious processions by only taking photographs sparingly, being quiet and dressing modestly, and avoid asking for any modifications to foods that you’re served. Follow these simple rules and you’re sure to have an amazing time in this fabulous part of Italy.
Elevate your holiday spirit with luxury Puglia tours, curated for unforgettable moments that capture the essence of this Italian gem. Ask us about other events and festivals happening around the time you travel.
