Festivals & Events in Sibiu

Annual Events & Festivals

Sibiu Christmas Market (Late November - Early January): Romania's most famous Christmas market transforming Piața Mare into winter wonderland. Crafts, traditional foods, mulled wine, concerts, ice skating. Internationally recognized as one of Europe's best.

Sibiu International Theatre Festival (FITS) - June: One of Europe's largest performing arts festivals with hundreds of performances, street theater, and international companies. City becomes open-air stage with events in unconventional spaces.

ARTmania Festival (July): Premier rock and metal music festival attracting international acts and thousands of fans to the city.

Astra Film Festival (October): International documentary film festival showcasing non-fiction cinema from around the world. Screenings throughout city venues.

Transylvania International Film Festival - Sibiu Edition (Various dates): Romania's largest film festival extends to Sibiu with special screenings and events.

Medieval Festival (Summer): Historical reenactments, traditional crafts demonstrations, medieval markets, and costume performances celebrating Sibiu's Saxon heritage.

Romanian National Holidays

• New Year (January 1-2): Public holiday, most businesses closed
• Easter (Variable, March/April): Romania's most important religious holiday - Friday through Monday. Churches beautifully decorated, traditional foods, midnight services
• Labour Day (May 1): Public holiday
• Children's Day (June 1): Special events and activities for families
• Pentecost Monday (Variable, May/June): Religious holiday
• Dormition of Mary (August 15): Major religious celebration
• St. Andrew's Day (November 30): Romania's patron saint; traditional celebrations
• National Day (December 1): Celebrates 1918 unification - parades, concerts, festivities
• Christmas (December 25-26): Two-day celebration with traditional meals, carols, and family gatherings

Note: During Easter and Christmas, many shops and restaurants close or have reduced hours. Book accommodation well in advance for Christmas Market period and major festivals.