Sardelada 2026

On the weekends of 10, 11 and 12 July and 24, 25 and 26 July 2026, Grado is once again hosting one of the summer’s most popular culinary events with the traditional Sardelada, an event organised by the Association of the Bearers of the Madonna of Barbana in collaboration with the Parish of Sant’Eufemia. Forming part of the programme of celebrations dedicated to the Patron Saints Ermagora and Fortunato, the Sardelada attracts locals and tourists alike every year to Campo Patriarca Elia, where the flavours of the maritime tradition blend with music, conviviality and the authentic atmosphere of the lagoon city.

The undisputed star of the event is the “sardela”, the sardine that is one of the signature ingredients of Grado’s cuisine. Found throughout the Mediterranean but deeply rooted in the local culinary culture, it is prepared according to recipes handed down through the generations: preserved in salt and then in oil, breaded and fried, or prepared “in savor” or “a scotadeo”, a typical method of pan-frying after a simple rinse in seawater. A unique opportunity to discover the authentic flavours of blue fish and learn about one of the specialities that best illustrates the relationship between Grado and its sea.

Every evening, from 6.00 pm, the food stalls open, offering visitors the chance to sample a variety of seafood specialities prepared according to local tradition, in a festive atmosphere that brings together residents and visitors alike. The Sardelada is not just an event dedicated to good food, but also represents an opportunity for people to come together and share, celebrating the seafaring roots of the Grado community and the value of its folk traditions.

Accompanying the tastings are musical performances that liven up the evenings. The programme features live concerts and performances, including a show by the Grado Civic Band, helping to create a pleasant and engaging atmosphere in the heart of the historic centre. The evenings thus become an opportunity to stroll through the narrow streets and along the seafront, savouring the finest local cuisine accompanied by music.

The Sardelada has now become one of the iconic events of the Grado summer, showcasing a simple product that is nonetheless rich in history and nutritional value. Sardines, which belong to the oily fish family, are naturally rich in Omega-3 and are one of the healthiest foods in the Mediterranean diet, combining flavour and wellbeing in a single speciality.

Taking part in the Sardelada means experiencing Grado through its most authentic traditions, letting yourself be captivated by the scents of the sea, the hospitality of its people and the unique atmosphere that accompanies the patron saint’s festival. An unmissable event for anyone wishing to discover the town’s true culinary soul and savour one of the most iconic dishes of Grado’s cuisine.