Sunday Parade of Mamuthones and Issohadores
Come early (about 30 min) to secure a spot along the route; expect vibrant folk music and heavy bell-clanging.
~15:30
Mamuthones and Issohadores Carnival
Mamuthones e Issohadores di Mamoiada
Mamoiada, Italy
Feb 7 - 9, 2027Expected
Each winter, the Sardinian village of Mamoiada fills with the slow, hypnotic tread of the Mamuthones, men in dark sheepskins and heavy black wooden masks who move under the weight of clanging bells. The red-clad Issohadores lasso onlookers from the crowd, in one of the island's oldest and most haunting carnivals.
Key moments
Day 1 · Feb 7
Day 3 · Feb 9
Fat Tuesday Parade of Mamuthones and Issohadores
Join locals in the square; enjoy free offerings of traditional sweets and wine as part of the festivities.
~15:00
Where it happens
Piazza Santa Croce
Mamoiada, Italy
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Respect local boundaries
Spectators may watch but should not attempt to participate in the Mamuthones ritual (dress...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Very crowded near parade route and squares; quieter in peripheral areas.
Weather
Cool to mild in February; possible rain. Events continue in light rain.
Transport
Regional buses (ARST) from Olbia or Nuoro to Mamoiada
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally safe environment in this small town; well-organized and family-friendly festival.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Mamuthones and Issohadores Carnival
Mamuthones e Issohadores di Mamoiada
Mamoiada, Italy
Each winter, the Sardinian village of Mamoiada fills with the slow, hypnotic tread of the Mamuthones, men in dark sheepskins and heavy black wooden masks who move under the weight of clanging bells. The red-clad Issohadores lasso onlookers from the crowd, in one of the island's oldest and most haunting carnivals.
AnchorCultural anchor
Feb 7 - 9, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Widely held to be among Sardinia’s oldest pagan carnivals, the Mamuthones parade (especially on Carnival Sunday and Tuesday) represents fertility and the cycle of seasons. The masks and costumes symbolize ancestral agrarian rites, making it a potent expression of island folklore.
Key moments to know
Day 1Feb 7~15:30Expected
Sunday Parade of Mamuthones and Issohadores
Come early (about 30 min) to secure a spot along the route; expect vibrant folk music and heavy bell-clanging.
Day 3Feb 9~15:00Expected
Fat Tuesday Parade of Mamuthones and Issohadores
Join locals in the square; enjoy free offerings of traditional sweets and wine as part of the festivities.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Respect local boundaries
Spectators may watch but should not attempt to participate in the Mamuthones ritual (dress or role-play).
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Feb 7 - 9, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Mamoiada
Barbagia (Central Sardinia)
Access
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) · 110 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: €60; Mid-range: €120; Luxury: €200+
Atmosphere
Lively, rhythmic atmosphere with folk music and parade excitement.,...
Very crowded near parade route and squares; quieter in pe...
Good for
Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Very High visitor welcome
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