Cavalcata Sarda

Ever since the 18th century, the city of Sassari fills with joyous sounds and colors during the third Sunday of May. This is the Cavalcata Sarda, an event created in homage to King Umberto I. Today, it’s recognized as one of the most important celebrations on the island. During the celebration, participants dress in traditional costumes and parade, on foot or on horseback, through the streets of Sassari accompanied by decorative carriages called “traccas.” Folk groups from around the island come to the celebration, each bringing their own costumes, symbols, and songs.

After the parade, the groups assemble in the Hippodrome where they compete in a “pariglie” (horse-assisted acrobatic feats) and do some spectacular acrobatics.

The Cavalcata Sarda is an important and traditional festival held every May in the town of Sassari. People from all regions of Sardinia come dressed in colorful traditional attire from their respective regions, all of which are decorated with beautiful embroidery and jewels. The event also includes plenty of traditional songs and dancing, making this a great chance for visitors to see the very best of Sardinian heritage all in one place. The event continues in the afternoon at the Sassari Hippodrome where all the riders and their horses perform the “pariglie,” a sort of horseback acrobatics show.

Luck was not on our side the day we went here because it rained all day and we had to see the Cavalgata from under our umbrellas while getting soaked soaking. Cavalgata is a pagan festival. Here's the rundown: In the morning there's a parade with all the traditional Sardinian costumes. The ladies accompanied by typical local sweets and give to offer attendees. In the afternoon, there stunts with horses. In the evening, traditional dances. All accompanied by a market of typical Sardinian products and other products (not just food). Held the second weekend in May and in good weather it's worth going.