In the heart of Galatina, a town better known for its baroque splendor and pasticciotto bakeries, Canudis is rewriting the script for how Puglia celebrates contemporary spirits culture. For three days, this historic venue becomes the official hub of the Fish & Gin Festival 2026, merging the region's warm hospitality with cutting-edge mixology and live entertainment.
The Festival Takes Over Via Stella
Canudis isn't just hosting the festival—it's transforming into a multi-sensory gin universe. Step through the door and you'll find rooms dedicated to different facets of gin culture: a secret bar tucked away for those who know to ask, a gin market showcasing bottles you won't find in standard shops, and a stage where live podcasts with Stefano Fish unfold in real time. The atmosphere oscillates between intimate conversation and festival buzz, with DJ sets threading through the three-day event like a sonic narrative.
The venue's stone walls and vaulted ceilings—typical of Galatina's historic center—create natural acoustics that make every clink of ice and burst of laughter feel intentional. It's not a sterile tasting room; it's a living, breathing celebration.
Masterclasses, Tastings, and the Art of Botanical Spirits
The festival's masterclasses are where curiosity meets craft. Led by industry experts, these sessions dive into the alchemy of botanicals, distillation techniques, and the stories behind artisan producers. You'll taste gins that range from Mediterranean coastal styles—think wild fennel and citrus—to experimental blends that challenge everything you thought gin could be.
- Live podcast recordings with Stefano Fish, offering insider perspectives on the spirits world
- A secret bar accessible only to festival-goers, serving limited-edition cocktails
- Gin market stalls featuring small-batch producers from across Italy and beyond
- DJ live sets that keep the energy flowing between tastings and talks
- Exclusive merchandising for collectors and gin enthusiasts
Why Galatina, Why Now
Galatina has always punched above its weight culturally—home to the stunning Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria and a thriving artisan food scene. Hosting the Fish & Gin Festival here signals a shift: this isn't just a coastal party town experience, but an invitation into the region's creative interior. The festival draws a crowd that's equal parts local aficionados and international spirits nerds, all united by a love of good conversation and better drinks.
After your festival hours, Galatina's centro storico is yours to explore. Grab a pasticciotto from a century-old bakery, wander the frescoed cloisters, or head a few kilometers west to the ancient olive groves and masserie that define the countryside. The festival is intense, but the town around it offers the perfect counterbalance—slow, sweet, and deeply rooted.