The 27th edition of the Ufi Fest, the national folklore festival , will characterize the centuries-old celebration of San Pantaleo, the patron saint of Macomer, scheduled between July 25th and 27th.
For the second time, the UFI Fest has chosen the capital of Marghine, with the "Tradizioni Popolari" group, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, to celebrate this major national folklore festival. The festival features five groups from across the peninsula, from Piedmont, Friuli, Lazio, Campania, and Molise, as well as Sardinian groups affiliated with the UFI, representing several municipalities on the island. The festival also features a marching band and, in particular, riders from the "Macomer a Cavallo" group, who will parade through the streets of the town center in traditional dress.
All the events, under the artistic direction of Serena Oggiano (who will also present all the events in the square), will take place inside the former Mura barracks , where the "Art and Flavours" exhibition will be set up, in collaboration with Coldiretti and "Campagna Amica Nuoro Ogliastra".
Pinuccio Penduzzu, president of the "Popular Traditions" group, reports over 300 participants: "Without detracting from the centuries-old tradition of celebrating the patron saint of San Pantaleo, this year the participating groups will actively bring the Macomerese festival to life. Local businesses and artisans will be involved in the Arts and Flavors exhibition, which will be held in the former Mura barracks." Mayor Riccardo Uda: "The centrality of Macomer will be highlighted, thanks to the work of those committed to popular traditions. This is a great opportunity for our town and the entire region." Rita Atzori, councilor for culture, adds: "Our town is becoming a significant center of folklore and traditions. It has played a role in the past, an important one from a social and economic perspective. Macomer is a vibrant town in terms of culture and identity."
The 27th UfiFest begins at 10:00 a.m. on July 25th with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official opening. Flag-wavers from Lazio will perform immediately afterward. Afterward, the inaugural procession will proceed to the Cultural Services Center, where Mayor Riccardo Uda, Councilor Rita Atzori, Ufi National President Mino Meloni, and Regional President Lino Cordella will speak. Immediately afterward, the "Art and Flavors" exhibition will be inaugurated. At 6:00 p.m., the horseback parade featuring the riders of "Asd Macomer a Cavallo" (Macomer Horse Riding Association) will begin. The event draws hundreds of people from across the peninsula to Macomer, who have already filled hotels and B&Bs. As the mayor says, it represents a great economic opportunity.