What major festivals happen in the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands host numerous festivals year-round including Carnival (February–March) — the second largest in the world after Rio — music festivals, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. Each island has its own unique festival calendar.

When is the best time to visit for festivals?

Carnival season (February–March) is the biggest festival period. Summer months (June–August) have numerous music festivals and outdoor events. Each island also celebrates its patron saint festival with unique traditions.

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Cancellation policies vary by operator. Please contact the featured operator directly to discuss cancellation and rescheduling options.

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Festivals in Ustica

Ustica, Sicily

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About this experience

Festivals in Ustica is a series of annual religious and civic celebrations held on the small volcanic island of Ustica, Sicily, roughly 36 nautical miles north of Palermo. These events, concentrated between June and September, combine processions, live folk music, and local food stalls in the island's main piazza and harbour. The calendar centres on the Feast of San Bartolomeo (24 August), the island's patron saint, alongside summer seafood and wine festivals.

What to expect

The Feast of San Bartolomeo on 24 August includes a candlelit procession of the saint's statue through the narrow streets of the village, followed by fireworks over the harbour at midnight.
The summer Sagra del Pesce (fish festival) offers grilled local catch such as amberjack and swordfish, served with capers and tomatoes, at communal tables near the port.
A week-long programme of evening concerts and open-air film screenings takes place in Piazza Umberto I, starting at 21:30 and lasting about two hours each night.
Visitors can join the 'Notte Blu' (Blue Night) in July, where the harbour is lit with blue lanterns and local boats parade with illuminated sails, accompanied by a DJ set on the quay.
The festivals suit families and independent travellers who want a low-key, community-run event; most activities are free, with food and drink sold at €5–€12 per portion.
During the August celebrations, a temporary market of local artisans sells ceramics, woven baskets, and Ustica's signature lentil-based snacks, open from 17:00 to midnight.