La Cavalcata Sarda di Sassari

A Festival Where Sardinian Pride and Beauty Come Alive

2026/05/16

Every May, the city of Sassari in northern Sardinia is enveloped in the vibrant colors and traditional sounds of “La Cavalcata Sarda.” More than 3,000 participants gather from all over the island, each village wearing its own unique folk costume, parading through the historic streets and turning the city into a living museum of Sardinian culture. For those interested in folk traditions, photography, or the real life of the local people, this festival stimulates all five senses and creates memories that last a lifetime.

Held annually on the third Sunday in May (sometimes the second Sunday depending on the year), both locals and visitors can experience the true charm of Sardinia together. This is the island’s largest festival, where diversity, artistry, and heartfelt hospitality all come together in one grand celebration.

Main Attractions

The Grand Parade

The centerpiece of the festival is a spectacular parade that winds for over two kilometers through Sassari’s old town. More than 3,000 people, on foot or horseback, appear grouped by village, showing off embroidered and laced costumes, gold and silver jewelry, traditional hats and scarves, and more. Spectators are treated to Sardinian bread, sweets, and seasonal fruits, sharing the flavors and warmth of the island.

Equestrian Acrobatics (Pariglie)

In the afternoon, the stage shifts to the Pinna Racetrack, where Sardinia’s top riders perform acrobatic stunts on galloping horses. The sound of hooves, the cheers of the crowd, and the sight of riders standing or leaping on horseback create a breathtaking spectacle where tradition and thrill meet.

Traditional Music and Dance

At night, Piazza d’Italia hosts a festival of traditional music and dance. Folk groups from all over the island fill the stage with the sounds of launeddas (reed pipes), male choir tenores, and accordions. The swirling costumes, the aroma of local food, and the music combine to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can join in the fun.

Costumes and Decorations

The festival is truly a feast for the eyes. Each village presents its own unique folk costumes, with embroidery, lace, vivid sashes, handwoven shawls, and impressive jewelry. The streets are decorated with flowers and flags, and ox carts (traccas) are beautifully adorned with traditional tools and blossoms, adding to the festive mood.

Traditional Food & Drink

During the parade, Sardinian bread, pastries, and seasonal fruits are handed out to spectators. At food stalls and restaurants, you can enjoy crispy pane carasau, pecorino cheese, seadas (cheese pastries with honey), and rich Cannonau wine. The aroma of freshly baked bread, roasted meats, and wild herbs fills the air, offering a true taste of Sardinian hospitality.

Cultural and Historical Background

The origins of Cavalcata Sarda date back to 1711, when the city of Sassari organized a parade to welcome King Philip V of Spain. The current form began in 1899, when the Italian royal family visited, and since then it has grown into Sardinia’s largest secular festival. It is rare in Sardinia for a festival to have no religious roots, making this a unique occasion to showcase the island’s pride, diversity, craftsmanship, and food culture.

For Sardinians, this festival is a special time to reaffirm their identity and community bonds, and to share their pride across generations and regions.

Participant Voices

I came from Milan to see the festival. The colors, the horses, the food—everything was overwhelming. I spoke with a woman from Nuoro who explained the meaning of her village’s costume, and she let me try on her shawl for a commemorative photo.

Fun Facts

It is rare in Sardinia to have a secular (non-religious) festival like this.
Equestrian acrobatics (pariglie) are a festival highlight, with cheers rising for the stunts performed on horseback.
The sound of the ancient launeddas instrument can be heard throughout the festival.