Cagliari Carnival
February/March
A range of parties, celebrations and costumes mark the onset of Cagliari’s Lent celebrations. Expect colourful parades featuring locals donning traditional masks for varying rolls such as tiàulus (the devils) and sa panettèra (the baker).
Settimana Santa
March/April
There is a strong feeling of ceremony and solemnity throughout Cagliari’s commemoration of Holy Week, with the stunning processions of Good Friday and Easter Sunday particular highlights.
Festival of Sant’Efisio
1 May
Back in the 17th century the patron saint of Sardinia is said to have saved Cagliari from the plague, and so on 1 May each year vibrant parades make their way along the city’s flower-lined streets to mark this feat. A golden ox-drawn coach bears an effigy of the saint, the arrival of which is marked by horns and sirens from ships docked in the port.
Cagliari Open Monument
May
A selection of Cagliari’s finest architectural edifices are opened up for public access around the city, which are usually classed as out of bounds.
Rosso Tango Art Festival
July
Visitors to this lively celebration of dance can take part in tango events, or milongas, in addition to yoga and ballet classes, while also taking in the range of tango performances and contests.