Laigueglia is not just a seaside destination. Throughout the year, the village hosts a rich calendar of events that accompanies visitors from spring through New Year's Eve, with historical reenactments, music festivals, seafood celebrations, and traditional local festivities that transform the seafront promenade and narrow alleyways into a vibrant open-air stage.

If you are planning a stay and would like to know what is happening during your visit, you are in the right place.

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The Saracen Landing: Laigueglia's signature summer event

Every year on 24 July at 10:00 PM, Laigueglia comes to a standstill. The central pier becomes the stage for one of the most spectacular historical reenactments on the western Ligurian Riviera: The Saracen Landing.

Organised by the Municipality of Laigueglia, the event recreates the assaults carried out by Berber pirates who terrorised the Ligurian coastline for centuries.

The reenactment culminates in a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the bay. Whether viewed from the beach or from a sea-facing terrace, it is one of those experiences that remain long in the memory. In the days leading up to the event, the village comes alive with Waiting for the Landing, a programme of entertainment and side events designed to build anticipation.

If there is one event that makes the week of 24 July worth choosing for your stay, this is it.

Check availability for this date.

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Events in Laigueglia in May: the village awakens

The events season beginsin May, even before summer officially arrives.

The weekend of 1–3 May opens with the Spring Festival organised by the Pro Loco, featuring workshops, food stalls and a traditional village atmosphere. During the same period, the Nord Ovest Divide cycling event arrives in Piazza Mazzini, bringing gravel and randonnée enthusiasts from across Italy to Laigueglia.

On 9 May, the fifteenth edition of Cross-Country Skiing on the Beach returns. It is one of the most unusual events on the Ligurian Riviera, where cross-country skis take to the sand in a competition that combines sport with a touch of irony.

On 10 May, runnerstake centre stage during the Tra Mare e Cielo Trail – Marco Foschi Memorial,following scenic routes between the village and the surrounding headland.

On 22-23 May will also see the return of the Beer Festival, a relaxed and popular event, perfect for enjoying an evening with friends and family.

Events in Laigueglia in June: music, traditionand the romantic night

June is the most diverse month of the season.

On 4 June, the Parish of San Matteo brings the village to life with the Corpus Domini Procession, while on 6 June, Vela Day welcomes sailing enthusiasts to the sea with Aquilia Scuola Vela ASD.

From 17 to 21 June, Terrazza Giuliano hosts the renowned Percfest Jazz Festival. Over five days, visitors can enjoy live concerts, educational workshops and jamsessions. Over the years, the festival has become one of the most appreciated jazz events in western Liguria. Its atmosphere is intimate and authentic: a carefully curated festival with the sea as its backdrop.

On 20 June,Laigueglia takes part in the romantic night of Italy's most beautiful villages, when the historic centre is illuminated and transformed into a uniquely romantic setting designed especially for couples.

The month concludes with two traditional maritime celebrations. On 24 June, during the Feast of Saint John, the central pier hosts a seafood stand serving freshly fried fish alongside the traditional bonfire by the sea.

 On 29 June, during the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, visitors can enjoy the Pesciolata, the distribution of fried fish that remains one of the village's most cherished community traditions. It is an event that perfectly reflects Laigueglia's enduring identity as a fishing village.

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Events in Laigueglia in July: walks, author music and recycling initiatives

July is the most dynamic month of the season, with the Saracen Landing as its highlight, but it also offers many other events.

On 11 July, visitors can take part in the dawnwalk “Mezz’ora all’Alba” (Half an Hour at Sunrise), departing from the central pier. This is a non-competitive, free-pace walk dedicated to enjoying the seaat sunrise in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. On the same weekend, from 11 to 12 July, Terrazza Giuliano hosts “Queste Piazze Davanti al Mare”, a cultural programme dedicated to Italian songwriting and literature, organised in collaboration with the Club Tenco — one of the most prestigious cultural partnerships in the village.

On 20 July, the Delfini del Ponente Associationorganises a guided snorkeling experience, offering an authentic way to discover the bay’s underwater world beyond the beach.

Throughout July, the Pro Loco also runs the children’s recycling initiative “Rimettilo in gioco” (“Put It Back into Play”), a second-hand toy exchange event particularly appreciated by families.

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Events in Laigueglia in August: stars, sailing and the sanctuary

August slows the pace of institutional events while preserving its distinctive atmosphere.

On 5 August, the Feast of the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Penne is celebrated, one of the most deeply felt religious traditions in the village. In the evening, the Vertical Roccaro takes place: a non-competitive uphill running challenge along the trails of the headland.

On 7 August, the Delfini del Ponente Association returns with educational workshops on sea turtles for children aged 6 to 11, one of the most appreciated family - friendly activities.

On the night of Saint Lawrence, 10 August, the “Camminata sotto le Stelle” (Walk Under the Stars) departs from Piazza Mazzini, organised by the Pro Loco, Civil Protection, and the Ingauni Astronomical Group. Shooting stars, a dark sky over the sea, and shared moments define this evocative experience.

‍On 15 August, the month concludes with the GranBaraonda/Trofeo Sampei, sailing regattas held in the bay.

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Events in Laigueglia in September: the San Matteo Fair

At the end of September, Laigueglia hosts one of the longest-standing events on the Ligurian Riviera: from 25 to 27 September, the San Matteo Fair (44th edition) brings traditional markets, local craftsman ship, and a final fireworks display to the village. It is an event suitable for all ages, including families, marking the end of summer with the authentic flavours of Liguria.

On 6 September, Terrazza Giuliano hosts the concert “Canzoni e Campioni” with Massimo Schiavon, while on 2 September Piazza Cavour comes alive with “Gente di Mare… Musica e Parole”, a memorial dedicated to Augusto and Gino Casalino.

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Events in Laigueglia in October: The “Salto dell’Acciuga”

The last major event of the season is also the most emblematic: on 10–11 October, the Municipality and Pro Loco organise “Il Salto dell’Acciuga” (“The Anchovy Leap”)—a festival dedicated to food and wine, local craftsmanship, literary meetings, and performances.

The name pays tribute to the anchovy, the fish that historically shaped Laigueglia’s economy and identity, and which also gives its name to our hotel.

It is an excellent opportunity to explore the gastronomy of western Liguria in depth, naturally complemented by a dinner in one of the seafront restaurants.

→ Where to eat in Laigueglia

Also in October, on 18 October at 6:00 AM, the “4 passi in riva al mare” (“4 Steps by the Sea”) returns in its sunrise edition—the most silent and atmospheric version of the entire calendar.

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The Common thread: “4 Steps by the Sea”

One recurring appointment runs through the entire season, from May to December, acting as a silent connecting thread: the “4 Steps by the Sea” project, organised by Monesi Young ASD, InforMare ASD, andthe Municipality of Laigueglia. The initiative offers guided seaside walks along the promenade, focusing on physical activity, prevention, and overallwell-being. Departures are always from the Central Pier, with a monthlyschedule, and the activity is open to everyone.

It is not a spectacular event, but it is perhaps theone that best represents how Laigueglia continues to experience its relationship with the sea even beyond the peak tourist season.

Laigueglia offers a calendar that deserves to beplanned in advance. Whether you wish to attend the Saracen Landing,enjoy a jazz evening at the Percfest, or experience the more intimate atmosphere of the San Matteo Fair, every time of year offers something different.

Book your stay by choosing your dates according to the events you would like to experience: the western Ligurian Riviera knows how to welcome you in every season.

To help you choose the best period according to yourpreferences → When to visit Laigueglia
To discover what to do beyond events → Experiences and activities in Laigueglia

Stay updated on events in Laigueglia through the official website of the Laigueglia Pro Loco.

FAQ

When does the Saracen Landing take place inLaigueglia?

The Saracen Landing takes place every year on 24 July at 10:00 PM at the Central Pier. It is a historical reenactment of the Berber pirate raids on the Ligurian coast, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display over the bay. In the days leading up to the event, a series of side activities known as “Waiting for the Landing” takes place.

What is the Percfest in Laigueglia?

The Percfest is Laigueglia’s annual jazz festival, usually held in mid-June (typically from 17 to 21 June) on Terrazza Giuliano. It features live concerts, educational workshops, and jam sessions, and is one of the most popular music events on the western Ligurian Riviera.

What are the main seafood festivals in Laigueglia?

The main seafood-relatedevents are two: the Feast of Saint John (San Giovanni) on 24 June, featuring fried fish and a traditional bonfire, and the Pesciolata on 29 June (Feast ofSaints Peter and Paul). Both events are organised by the Pro Loco at the Central Pier. They are free and highly popular, offering fried fish distribution and a lively local atmosphere.

What is the “Salto dell’Acciuga” in Laigueglia?

The “Salto dell’Acciuga”(“Anchovy Leap”) is the village’s autumn festival, usually held in October. It is dedicated to local food and wine, craftsmanship, and cultural events. The name pays tribute to the anchovy, a fish that played a central role in Laigueglia’s economic and cultural history. The event includes shows, literary meetings, and food stands.

Are there events in Laigueglia outside the maintourist season?

Yes. The “4 Steps by theSea” project takes place monthly from May to December, offering open seaside walks along the promenade. In September, the San Matteo Fair and several concerts take place. In December, the village lights up with the Christmas tree in Piazza Mazzini and the New Year’s Eve celebration on 31 December.

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