Originally celebrated on Saturdays and Sundays, the feast was extended from Friday to Monday at the request of the veterans of World War I, to thank the saint for bringing them home safely, and honour those who had fallen in the war.

Traditionally, celebrations kick-off with the lighting of a large bonfire in the square ('Su Fogadoni'), whose origins are lost in the mists of time, probably marking the beginning of the new agricultural year in pre-Christian times.

For four days, the inhabitants of Sarroch express all their devotion to their patron saint with solemn religious celebrations, musical concerts, games and sports events on the streets.

Each day in the festival features morning and afternoon masses, while the last day closes the celebrations with a procession parading the 18^th-century statue of the saint (depicted wearing a red and blue dress and carrying the palm of martyrdom), through the streets of the town on an ox-drawn chariot, accompanied by sacred songs, prayers and launeddas players.

On the side of the religious celebrations, an improvised poetry competition ('Sa Cantada') sees poets compete to make up verses in the Sardinian language.