Barcarolata 2026

On Sunday 26 July 2026, the Barcarolata returns to Sestri Levante, one of the most iconic and spectacular events of the Ligurian summer. Regarded as a veritable carnival on the sea, the event transforms the splendid Baia del Silenzio into a floating stage where imagination, creativity and tradition come together to create a truly unique spectacle.

The stars of the evening will be the traditional boats of the local seafaring heritage – gozzi, lancette and fishing boats – which, for the occasion, will be decorated with original designs, papier-mâché, coloured lights and spectacular costumes. Each crew will interpret a different theme, creating a parade on the sea that will entertain and amaze thousands of spectators.

Providing the backdrop to the event will be the evocative Leudo of Sestri Levante, a historic vessel symbolic of the Ligurian seafaring tradition, which will help to make the evening’s atmosphere even more enchanting.

The Barcarolata is much more than just a parade: it is a popular festival that involves the whole town. Residents and tourists gather along the seafront to watch a spectacle that, year after year, revives a tradition deeply rooted in Sestri Levante’s maritime identity, where the art of boat decoration meets a passion for the sea.

The event will kick off at 9.00 pm, when the boats will begin their parade in the Baia del Silenzio before the eyes of the public and the jury tasked with awarding prizes for the most original, creative and spectacular designs.

At the end of the parade, the awards ceremony for the winners will take place, followed by the most eagerly awaited moment of the evening: the grand fireworks display that will light up the sea and the town’s skyline with an extraordinary choreography of lights and colours, providing a thrilling finale to one of the iconic events of the Ligurian summer.

Organised by the Municipality of Sestri Levante under the artistic direction of Flying Donkeys Productions, in collaboration with the Italian Naval League – Sestri Levante Branch and with the support of Mediaterraneo Servizi, the Barcarolata continues to attract thousands of visitors every year, confirming its status as one of the most beloved events on the Riviera di Levante.

Combining the sea, tradition, creativity and fireworks, the Barcarolata 2026 will once again offer an unforgettable evening in the splendid setting of the Baia del Silenzio, where imagination sails across the water and the Ligurian summer presents one of its most evocative spectacles.