San Simplicio Festival 2025

In the heart of Olbia, Sardinia, May means only one thing: the San Simplicio Festival. It’s one of the most deeply cherished and widely attended events by the local community, who celebrate their patron saint each year with devotion and joy. The 2025 edition, scheduled from May 13 to 18, promises to be rich with religious, cultural, and musical events, culminating in the grand procession on May 15, the day marking the saint’s martyrdom.
This celebration, affectionately known as "Sa Festa Manna" (The Big Festival), is a must-see even for first-time visitors to Olbia. Experiencing the city during this festive week means coming into contact with the true soul of Gallura, through ancient traditions, local flavors, and an extraordinary sense of community.

Experiencing Olbia During the Festival

If you're thinking of visiting Sardinia, the week of May 13–18 is the perfect time to discover Olbia at its most authentic. The city’s squares come alive, restaurants serve traditional dishes, and the whole town buzzes with positive energy. It’s also a great opportunity to explore the local real estate market—whether you’re looking for a second home or an investment, this is the best time to soak in the atmosphere of the city.
The San Simplicio Festival 2025 is more than just a religious event—it’s a symbol of Olbia’s identity. It’s tradition, folklore, faith, and community. And it’s also the perfect time to experience the essence of the most authentic Sardinia up close.

The Flavors and Fun of the Festival

During the week of San Simplicio, the streets of Olbia fill with enticing aromas. Among the most popular offerings is the freshly made sandwich with grilled sausage, pancetta, pork neck, or horse meat. It’s the classic festival sandwich—simple but delicious—perfect for a quick bite between events. No Olbian would dream of missing it each year.
Another highlight for fun and entertainment is Fausto Noce Park, where evening concerts take place, along with rides and attractions for both kids and adults. The park becomes the center of the evening festivities, filled with music, laughter, and colorful lights.

Official Program of the San Simplicio Festival 2025

Tuesday, May 13:

• 5:00 PM – Gathering of ex-voto flags in Piazza San Simplicio
  
  

• 5:30 PM – Parade with the “F. Mibelli” Band
  
  

• 7:00 PM – Holy Mass at the Basilica of San Simplicio
  
  

• 9:30 PM – Fireworks display on the Via Redipuglia seafront
  
  

Wednesday, May 14:

• 7:00 PM – Holy Mass
  
  

• 10:00 PM – Comedy show with Alessandro Pili and Marco Piccu at Fausto Noce Park
  
  

Thursday, May 15 – Feast Day of San Simplicio:

• 5:30 AM – Musical reveille through the streets of Olbia
  
  

• 10:00 AM – Welcome of Bishop Mons. Fornaciari
  
  

• 11:30 AM – Solemn Pontifical Mass in Piazza San Simplicio
  
  

• 4:30 PM – Performance by folk groups
  
  

• 6:00 PM – Solemn procession with the statue of the saint
  
  

• 9:00 PM – Regional folklore showcase
  
  

Friday, May 16:

• 7:00 PM – Holy Mass
  
  

• 9:30 PM – Evening of Sardinian poetry
  
  

• 10:00 PM – “Island in Celebration” concert with Giuliano Marongiu
  
  

Saturday, May 17:

• 6:00 PM – Mussel Festival of the Gulf of Olbia
  
  

• 7:00 PM – Holy Mass
  
  

• 10:00 PM – Concert by Fabrizio Moro at Fausto Noce Park
  
  

Sunday, May 18:

• 4:30 PM – Blessing of horses on Viale Isola Bianca
  
  

• 5:00 PM – “Palio della Stella” with riders from across the province
  
  

• 7:00 PM – Holy Mass
  
  

• 8:00 PM – Choral concert “Mesu Maju in Coro”
  
  

• 10:00 PM – Concert by Tazenda and Alberto Bertoli