"The scent of roasted eel and those golden embroideries..."

I was perhaps 6 or 7 years old when my father lifted me onto a horse's back for the first time. We were in Viale Dante, in the heart of the festival. I still remember the feeling of height, the pride of the animal, and the colors surrounding me.

Since that day, for me, the Cavalcata Sarda has never been just a tourist parade. It is a ritual.

Today I am 57, but when May arrives, I become a child again. I am still enchanted by the elegance of Sardinian women: their dresses are not costumes, they are jewels. Gold thread embroideries shining in the sun, velvets, jewelry passed down for generations. And then the horses, masterfully governed, elegant and powerful.

And I cannot forget the scents. If I close my eyes, I can still smell the freshly cut nougat and the unmistakable aroma of stalls roasting eel and suckling pig. Ancient, strong, true flavors.

How to enjoy the festival today (My tips as a Host)

The Cavalcata is the most beautiful event of spring, but Sassari transforms on that day. Thousands of people arrive from all over the island to admire the 3,000 figures in traditional dress.

To experience it with a smile and remain enchanted like that child in Viale Dante, just a little organization is needed. Here are my tips for my guests:

1. Smart Logistics 🚌 The city center is closed to traffic to make room for the parade. Looking for parking near the route (Viale Italia, Via Roma) is difficult and unnecessarily tiring. My advice? Leave your car safely here at the Villa. We will call you a taxi or point you to the direct bus. You will arrive just outside the pedestrian zone fresh and rested, ready to immerse yourself in the colors.

2. The Right Timing ⏰ The parade starts in the morning, but the groups get ready earlier. Arriving around 9:00 AM allows you to see the horses up close and take incredible photos before the crowd becomes too dense.

3. Beyond the Parade: The Taste 🍷 Don't just stop to watch. Seek out the flavors. The sausage sandwich, the Tonara nougat, and if you want to dive into the true Sassari, taste the roasted eel. It is a flavor you won't find in tourist restaurants; it is the flavor of the festival.