U Ludareddu 2026 in Porto-Vecchio: Friday 31 July
On 31 July, Porto-Vecchio will celebrate one of the region’s most authentic traditions: U Ludareddu.
What is “U Ludareddu”?
In Corsican tradition, U Ludareddu (or U Ludarè) is a straw-and-rag effigy representing the month of July. Historically, July was the most demanding month for agricultural work, marked by intense heat and long days in the fields.
To mark the end of this difficult period and welcome the month of August, the people of Porto-Vecchio carry out a symbolic ritual:
- The parade: the effigy is carried on a donkey (or on foot) through the narrow streets of the old town.
- The public trial: U Ludareddu is publicly tried for all the year’s troubles (the heat, mosquitoes and everyday annoyances), with plenty of humour and local satire.
- The bonfire: found guilty, the effigy is finally burned in the main square to the cheers of the crowd.
Programme in the Old Town
- 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm: Donkey rides
- 6:00 pm: Mini Luddareddi craft workshop with the Corsica Bella Association
- 9:00 pm: Procession through the streets followed by the burning of U Ludareddu
- 9:30 pm (Place de la République): Concert by the group A Vadina
This is not a show created for tourists, but a genuine local tradition proudly preserved by the associations and residents of Porto-Vecchio.
Practical information
- Date: Friday 31 July 2026
- Location: Porto-Vecchio Old Town (Place de la République / Church Square)
- Admission: Free and open to everyone
- Parking: Please use the peripheral car parks (P1, P2 and P3) or the free shuttle buses, as traffic within the citadel will be restricted during the event.
