Festa dei Ceri 2026 in Gubbio: program, history and practical tips

Festa dei Ceri 2026 in Gubbio: program, history and practical tips

The Festa dei Ceri in Gubbio is one of Umbria's most iconic folk events. The main celebration for 2026 takes place on 15 May. The day combines devotion, tradition and a powerful sense of community.

What the festival is

The event commemorates Sant'Ubaldo and features three groups of locals carrying massive wooden “Ceri”, each approximately 4–5 meters tall and weighing around 300 kg. Rituals run from dawn until evening, culminating in a dramatic run up to the Basilica on Monte Ingino.

Indicative schedule for 15 May 2026

The day follows a precise ritual timetable. Below is the main program to help plan your visit:

• 05:30 - Drums wake up captains and capodieci (houses of the Captains)
• 06:00 - Big bell wakes the town (Palazzo dei Consoli)
• 07:00 - Commemoration of ceraioli who passed away (Cimitero Civico)
• 08:00 - Ceraioli mass and extraction of the bussolo (Chiesa dei Muratori)
• 09:00 - Saints' procession and breakfast toward Piazza Grande
• 10:00 - Parade of ceraioli (from Porta Castello to Piazza Grande)
• 11:30 - Investiture of the Captains (Piazza Grande)
• 12:00 - Alzata dei Ceri (main morning highlight, Piazza Grande)
• 13:00 - Tavola bona (ceraioli's meal, Piazza Grande and Arconi)
• 17:00 - Procession with the statue of Sant'Ubaldo (from the Duomo)
• 18:00 - Start of the Corsa dei Ceri (Chiesa dei Neri toward the Basilica)
• 19:30 - Arrival at the Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo (Monte Ingino)

Brief history and meaning

The festival has medieval origins and honors Sant'Ubaldo. Early candle processions evolved into the wooden Ceri that today symbolize civic identity, devotion and intergenerational tradition.

How to get there and mobility

• By car: Gubbio is about 45 minutes from Perugia via SS3/E45. The historic center is closed to traffic on the festival day from 05:00 to 24:00. Recommended free parking areas include Teatro Romano, San Pietro and Piazzale Leonardo Da Vinci.
• By bus/train: Connections from Perugia and nearby towns; the nearest station is Fossato di Vico (20 km) with onward bus links.
• Cable car / shuttle: Use shuttles or the funicular to reach Monte Ingino; tickets are usually required and schedules should be checked in advance.

Where to sleep and what to eat

Book accommodation early: options range from upscale hotels in the historic center to budget lodgings nearby. Culinary specialties to try include crescia (Umbrian flatbread), strangozzi with truffles and local roast dishes; the traditional tavola bona is a highlight if you are invited.

Practical tips

• Arrive early for the Alzata in Piazza Grande (recommended by 10:00).
• Wear comfortable shoes: the route includes steep inclines and ancient paving.
• Avoid high heels and bulky strollers; bring water and sun protection.
• Follow organizer instructions and respect road closures and cordoned areas.
• The festival is free to attend; some services (cable car, museums) charge a fee.

FAQ (quick)

• When is the main run? The main run occurs on 15 May 2026 in the evening toward the Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo.
• How heavy are the Ceri? About 300 kg each, standing 4–5 meters tall.
• Is the festival family-friendly? Yes, but it can be tiring; the Ceri Piccoli event on 2 June is more suitable for families with small children.

The Festa dei Ceri is an immersive cultural experience that showcases living tradition and strong local identity. Plan ahead, respect customs and enjoy a day of history, faith and spectacle in Gubbio.