Many of the festivities are traditions that have been ongoing for centuries and reveal a lot about the Sardinians themselves and their history. The magnificent costumes and jewellery that the women wear highlight the handicrafts of the island.
Festivals in Sardinia often have a religious theme but there are a plethora of others that celebrate annual events including the fish festival in July where you can sample fried fish or the International Jazz festival in August, one of the most important festivals in Sardinia. We have compiled a list of the main festivals and events so if you are lucky enough to be in Sardinia when one is on, you have no excuse to miss it!
Events in Sardinia:
February
Carnival - Various Locations
Extremely popular in Sardinia. Masked and costumed figures parade around small villages and bigger towns of the island.
Easter
Various Locations
Costumes, processions and intense drama are the main ingredients of Sardinia's various festas commemorating Easter.
May
Estiva Cup - Porto Rotondo
International sailing regatta in Porto Rotondo.
May/June
Louis Vuitton Trophy - Maddalena Island
Sailing regatta.
Polo Gold Cup 2010 - Costa Smeralda
Polo tournament.
June
Baltic Cup - Porto Cervo
Sailing show organised by the Yachting Club of Costa Smeralda.
July
Fish Festival - Santa Teresa di Gallura
A festival inviting visitors to sample fried fish and delightful Vermentino wine.
August
Smeralda 888 European Cup - Porto Cervo
Prime sailing exhibition.
International Folklore Festival - Tempio Pausania
Held during Tempio’s summer carnival and featuring various ethnic groups from all over the world.
Time in Jazz - Berchidda
International Jazz Festival – one of the most important in Sardinia.
September
Round Sardinia Race - Cagliari
Sailing regatta.
