Every August, the Salento peninsula ignites with the “Notte della Taranta.” This itinerant festival travels through the charming villages of Grecìa Salentina, culminating in the massive “Concertone” in Melpignano. It’s a fusion of traditional “Pizzica” music and contemporary sounds, where thousands of people dance under the stars to heal their souls from the mythical bite of the tarantula.
Born from the ancient myth of “Tarantism,” where the bite of a spider was cured through frenetic dance, the Notte della Taranta is now a global celebration. While the festival travels through 15 towns in the Salento area, it is the city of Lecce that serves as the cultural gateway to this mystical world. Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of tambourines, violins, and accordion melodies under the Puglia stars.
Throughout August, with the final grand concert usually on the last Saturday of the month.
Various towns around Lecce (Grecìa Salentina). Melpignano hosts the final event.
Most events and the final concert are free of charge.
Special shuttles are usually available from Lecce.
While the Night of the Taranta ignites your soul after sunset, the daylight hours are perfect for discovering the wonders of Salento. From the golden Baroque streets of Lecce to the crystal-clear waters of the coast, we’ve selected the best GetYourGuide activities to make your trip truly unforgettable. Book your spot and dive deep into the heart of Puglia.
The most efficient way is the “Treno della Taranta,” a special night train service that connects Lecce to Melpignano until the early morning. Alternatively, look for the “Salento in Bus” shuttles. If you prefer freedom, book a private transfer on GetYourGuide to avoid parking stress.
Comfort is key. Wear breathable clothing and flat, comfortable shoes for dancing on grass or stone. Don’t forget a traditional red bandana—it’s the symbol of the dance and the “spider’s bite.”
Yes, the festival is a family-friendly event. However, be aware that the final concert in Melpignano can be very crowded (over 100,000 people), so the earlier concerts in smaller villages might be more comfortable for families.
Absolutely, but August is very busy. We highly recommend booking your walking tours and food experiences in advance via GetYourGuide to ensure availability during the festival weeks.
