Patronal Feast of Saint Bernard
Edition 2026 Sacred music Heritage Folk traditions

Patronal Feast of Saint Bernard

The national festival of the Principality of Seborga, August 20th

Seborga — Imperia (008)
Dates 20 Aug — 20 Aug 2026
Location Seborga (008)
Prices Free
Status Confirmed

About Feast of Saint Bernard

Every August 20th, Seborga, the small village in the hinterland of Bordighera which declares itself a Principality, celebrates its patron saint, Saint Bernard, with the most cherished festival of the year. Between the firing of the cannon from the Belvedere, the solemn mass, the procession, and the dinner with dancing in the square, the day combines religious devotion and princely folklore. There are no shortage of spectacular moments linked to the figure of Princess Nina and, often, the presentation of a new Principality coin, the luigino, which makes this event unique throughout the Riviera dei Fiori.

The Patron Saint of a Principality

In Seborga, a village perched in the hinterland of Bordighera, in the province of Imperia, August 20th is no ordinary date: it is the Patronal Feast of Saint Bernard, which coincides with the national celebration of the Principality of Seborga, on the anniversary of the saint's death. For centuries, the community has come together on this day, which intertwines faith, tradition, and the very unique identity of the village.

Between Sacred and Folklore

The day alternates between religious moments and civil ceremonies: the solemn mass and the procession in honor of Saint Bernard, the firing of the cannon from the Belvedere in Piazza Martiri Patrioti, the anthem, and the performances of the flag-wavers. All this in a setting that evokes the imagery of the Principality, with the presence of Princess Nina and, often, spectacular moments such as arrival in vintage cars.

The Luigino and the Piazza Festival

Among the most anticipated events is the presentation of a new Principality coin, the luigino, minted in limited edition: a small collector's ritual that has made Seborga famous far beyond Liguria's borders. In the evening, the festival continues with the dinner in Piazza Martiri Patrioti organized by Pro Seborga and dancing with an orchestra. A perfect opportunity to discover one of Liguria's most curious villages.

Feast of Saint Bernard — edition 2026

On August 20, 2026, Seborga celebrates its national and patronal feast of Saint Bernard. The day, according to tradition, alternates between the firing of the cannon from the Belvedere, the mass and procession, performances by flag-wavers, and dinner with dancing in Piazza Martiri Patrioti. Often, the event is also an occasion for the presentation of a new Principality coin.

For 2026 too, Seborga renews, on August 20th, the most important festival in its calendar. The date is fixed and coincides with the national celebration of the Principality on the anniversary of Saint Bernard's death.

The detailed program will be defined by Pro Seborga closer to the event; the structure of the day follows the established tradition, with religious ceremonies, civil moments, and the evening festival in the square.

Programme Feast of Saint Bernard 2026

The detailed 2026 program will be announced by Pro Seborga in the weeks prior. Based on recent editions, the day includes:

  • Afternoon — firing of the cannon from the Belvedere in Piazza Martiri Patrioti, with the national anthem of the Principality
  • Solemn Mass and procession of Saint Bernard
  • Performances by flag-wavers
  • Presentation (if applicable) of the new Principality coin, the luigino
  • Evening — dinner in Piazza Martiri Patrioti organized by Pro Seborga and dancing with an orchestra

Highlights Feast of Saint Bernard 2026

Cannon firing, Saint Bernard's procession, flag-wavers, presentation of the new luigino, and dinner with dancing in the square.

Prices Feast of Saint Bernard 2026

Celebrations are free to attend. Dinner in the square is organized by Pro Seborga.

Practical information — Feast of Saint Bernard

Where

Seborga (IM), historic center and Piazza Martiri Patrioti. The festival takes place on August 20th each year.

How to get there

Seborga can be reached by car from the Riviera, driving inland from Bordighera or Ospedaletti along scenic roads. The nearest train station is Bordighera, then continue by car or local transport.

Admission

The celebrations are free to attend. The dinner in the square is organized by Pro Seborga.

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Where does it take place — Feast of Saint Bernard

Centro storico di Seborga

Piazza Martiri Patrioti, 18012 Seborga

Feast of Saint Bernard in brief

Sacred music Heritage Folk traditions Folklore Outdoor Free Imperia

History of Feast of Saint Bernard