Religious festivals and folklore in Sardinia: must-see events in August

Find out where and when to attend Sardinia's most atmospheric summer festivals

A blaze of bright colours, golden embroidery finely stitched onto bodices and sweeping skirts. Embroidered headscarves, expertly tied, frame faces that seem almost painted, adorned with filigree jewellery passed down from mother to daughter for entire generations. Then come the rhythmic steps of an ancient dance – the ballu tundu – whose beat sets the pace not only for performances but also for processions. It is the enchantment of the Rassegna del Folklore, the folklore showcase that has brought the streets of Arzachena to life every 13 August for the past twenty years, attracting thousands of visitors, tourists and locals alike. Folk groups from all over the island gather in this coastal town, starching their shirts and preparing their finest festive dress, their faces lit up with the joy and pride of presenting their traditions and heritage – an unmistakable mark of Sardinian identity. This much-loved highlight of Arzachena’s summer calendar also features traditional dishes and local delicacies from Gallura and across Sardinia.

A riot of glittering coloured lights will illuminate the skies above the waters off La Sciumara beach in Cannigione on the evening of 15 August, with a fireworks display organised by the Cannigione Marina Consortium and sponsored by the Municipality of Arzachena. From 11 p.m. on Ferragosto night, countless faces will turn skyward as the heavens become the breathtaking stage for the traditional fireworks display. Accordion music is a familiar soundtrack to patron saint festivals, country fêtes and carnival celebrations in towns across Sardinia, as well as during gatherings of folk groups. In Arzachena, this tradition takes centre stage on 18 August with the Festival delle Fisarmoniche, dedicated to the music of this beloved instrument. The accordion – particularly the eight-bass model – is most commonly used in traditional Sardinian dance music, though it also frequently accompanies singing. The festival aims to celebrate and showcase this ancient art form at its very best.

August’s programme of events concludes on the 29th with a concert by Istentales. The word Istentales has no literal translation into Italian, but it refers to a star in the Orion constellation once used by shepherds and farmers as a reference point for sowing, harvesting, and telling the time. It is the first star to appear at dusk and the last to fade at dawn. With this poetic message, Istentales will take to the stage to perform their greatest hits.

Finally, in Gallura, one of the region’s most important and deeply rooted events takes place on 8 September: the Festa Manna di Gaddhura, honouring the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, celebrated in Luogosanto at the parish church of the patron saint. The festivities include a grand popular procession featuring religious confraternities, horsemen in traditional costume, folk groups, marching bands and civic and religious authorities. A solemn mass follows, sung by polyphonic ensembles and traditional tàsgia choirs.

To discover all of the Island's most beloved traditional festivals, click here!