The Italian Riviera is a captivating destination year-round, but the 2025 event calendar promises to make it even more enchanting. From cultural festivals to food and wine tastings, here’s a look at the highlights happening in Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and beyond.
Spring: Celebrating Nature and Local Traditions
- Portofino Regata (April 2025): This iconic sailing competition brings elegance and excitement to the turquoise waters of Portofino, showcasing the region’s maritime heritage.
- Santa Margherita Spring Festival (May 2025): A vibrant celebration of Ligurian culture featuring live music, local crafts, and traditional dishes that highlight the region’s rich history and culinary delights.
Summer: Music and Outdoor Magic
- Jazz on the Harbor (June 2025): An enchanting evening of live jazz performances right on Portofino’s famous Piazzetta, creating a sophisticated ambiance under the stars.
- Santa Margherita Outdoor Cinema Nights (July and August 2025): Enjoy classic and modern films under the stars in one of the town’s scenic piazzas, offering a unique cinematic experience.
The Prestige of Sailing: Liguria’s Regata Calendar
Liguria is synonymous with maritime excellence, and its annual sailing events attract top-tier sailors from around the world. The 2025 regata calendar features thrilling competitions set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Riviera:
- International Genoa Winter Contest (January – February 2025): A prestigious event featuring classes like Optimist and ILCA, setting the stage for young and seasoned sailors alike.
- Genoa Sailing Week (March 2025): One of the region’s most anticipated regatas, blending tradition and high-performance sailing in the Ligurian waters.
- Regate di Primavera a Portofino (April 25-27, 2025): A must-see for sailing enthusiasts, this spring regata is a breathtaking display of skill and elegance on the waters of Portofino.
- Bombola d’Oro – Trofeo Siad (May 23-25, 2025): A classic competition for Dinghy 12’ sailboats, held between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino.
- Loro Piana Giraglia (June 2025): A legendary offshore race that starts from Saint-Tropez, rounds the Giraglia rock, and finishes in Genoa.
- Millevele IREN (September 2025): An annual sailing event connected to the Genoa Boat Show, offering an extraordinary spectacle of yachts gliding across the Ligurian Sea.
Autumn: Culinary Delights and Cultural Events
- Festival of Pesto (September 2025, Santa Margherita Ligure): A tribute to Liguria’s most famous sauce with live cooking demonstrations and tastings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culinary tradition.
- Portofino Art Week (October 2025): Local galleries and artists showcase their work in this charming coastal village, providing a platform for art enthusiasts to explore the region’s vibrant creative scene.
Winter: Holiday Festivities
- Christmas Lights and Markets (December 2025): Both Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure transform into winter wonderlands with festive decor and charming markets offering artisanal gifts and local treats.
- New Year’s Eve in Portofino: Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with style at exclusive dinners and waterfront fireworks, offering a luxurious way to bid farewell to the old year.
Whether you are already familiar with the area or are planning your first visit, 2025 is the perfect year to explore the vibrant cultural offerings of the Italian Riviera.
Ready to Experience the Magic of the Italian Riviera?
If you’re looking for a luxurious vacation home to spend time on the Italian Riviera, contact At Home today. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you find your dream property in Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and beyond. Let us guide you through the process of finding the perfect retreat amidst the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this stunning region.