Puglian Pleasures

Last night I found myself swept up in one of the most heart-warming traditions I’ve experienced in Puglia — the serenata.

Now, if you’re picturing a man with a guitar beneath a balcony à la Romeo and Juliet, you’re on the right track… but in true Italian style, it’s bigger, louder, and a whole lot more fun.

A serenata is a pre-wedding celebration in which the groom surprises his bride-to-be (or sometimes not-so-surprises — word tends to get around in small towns!) with an open declaration of love. It’s not just a Puglian thing — variations of the tradition can be found across Italy — but here in the South, it’s especially joyful, with deep ties to the local Pizzica music (sang in local dialect so I had absolutely no idea what they were saying!), community spirit, and that trademark southern warmth.

The idea is simple: the groom gathers his friends, family, and local musicians outside the bride’s home, usually late in the evening, and sings to her from the street below. But the reality? It’s a full-on mini-party.

Last night’s serenata had everything — the hypnotic beat of pizzica music, the laughter of friends and family swaying along, and even cars slowing down to honk their horns in solidarity with love. After a few songs, the bride came downstairs to greet her groom-to-be — looking a little embarrassed at first, but soon got swept up in the moment. Before long, the two of them were dancing the night away, right there on the street, surrounded by cheering friends and family.

And because this is Southern Italy, the evening didn’t end there. Once the music wound down, the guests were ushered into the garage, where a buffet of snacks and refreshments awaited. The groom gave a short toast with prosecco — a sparkle in both his eyes and his glass — before everyone tucked in.

It was more than just a performance; it was a public promise, a celebration of love shared not only between two people, but with the whole community.

If you ever get invited to a serenata in Puglia, go! Don’t think twice. You’ll leave with your heart as full as your stomach, and a smile that lasts for days.