SARDINIA EVENTS: WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026
A look at time-honoured traditions and the latest summer festivals.
A note on the 2026 calendar
Major religious and traditional celebrations (New Year’s, the Candelieri procession, Redentore) follow fixed dates or long-standing traditions. By contrast, local food festivals and smaller concerts often publish full programmes only a few months beforehand. Below you will find confirmed dates as well as estimates based on historical recurrence.
Cap d’Any: the tried-and-true format
New Year’s in Alghero is a sure thing. Every year, from late November to 6 January, the city comes alive with Santa’s Village, markets, an ice rink, and street performances.
2025/2026 edition: Major concerts confirmed at Piazzale della Pace.
- 29 December 2025: Concert by Raf.
- 30 December 2025: Urban night with Kid Yugi and Low-Red.
- 31 December 2025: New Year’s Eve with Gabry Ponte.
- The recurring format: Beyond the concerts, expect street theatre, family activities, and the Christmas tree lighting in Piazza Porta Terra, events that successfully return year after year.
Big concerts at the amphitheatre
The Alguer Summer Festival remains one of the highlights of the Sardinian summer. In 2026, the Ivan Graziani Amphitheatre at Maria Pia will host major stops on international and Italian tours, with unforgettable nights of music under the stars.
- 4 August 2026: Claudio Baglioni (“La vita è adesso – Grand Tour”).
- 9 August 2026: Il Volo (World Tour 2026–2027).
- 11 August 2026: Mannarino.
- Note: The full programme is usually expanded in spring with additional indie, pop, and rock dates.
Sardinia’s three flagship festivals
These celebrations are pillars of island culture. Their timing is tied to well-established religious or civic calendars and draws visitors from around the world to admire precious costumes and age-old rituals.
- Cavalcata Sarda (Sassari): Expected on 22–24 May 2026 (the penultimate Sunday of May). A secular parade of traditional dress and acrobatic horse riding.
- Faradda di li Candareri (Sassari): Fixed date 14 August 2026. The procession of the great votive candles (UNESCO heritage).
- Festa del Redentore (Nuoro): Late August 2026. The main costume parade is tentatively set for Sunday, 23 August 2026, the high point of a week of events.
Food fairs, Carnival & Holy Week
The “Sardinia Events 2026” calendar is packed with celebrations across the island. From the Barbagia Carnival to food and wine festivals in inland villages, every month brings a different flavour.
Exact dates are confirmed by local councils month by month. Here is what to keep an eye on:
- Carnival (February/March): Don’t miss the Mamuthones in Mamoiada and “Lu Carrasciali” in Tempio Pausania.
- Holy Week (April): Particularly evocative in Alghero (the Setmana Santa rites) and in Castelsardo (Lunissanti).
- Spring/Summer food festivals: Strawberry Festival (Arborea), Cherry Festival (Burcei), and celebrations dedicated to gattò and pardule. Check regional portals for specific weekend dates.
Where can you find the full, up-to-date calendar?
Because many local events finalise their programmes only shortly beforehand, we recommend checking these official sources during your stay:
- Alghero Tourist Portal: The municipal calendar (exhibitions, theatre, sport), updated progressively by the Alghero Foundation.
- Regional portals (“Eventi Sardegna”): Filter village festivals and fairs by month and location.
Not sure what to do today, or want a quick recommendation?
Ask the Aigua team