Calendimaggio 2026 – an event that transcends the centuries

Now in its annual edition, Calendimaggio returns to the streets and squares of the charming town of Assisi. This historical re-enactment celebrates the arrival of spring and, between 6 and 9 May 2026, will once again prove itself to be one of Italy’s most fascinating and heartfelt folklore events.

Are you ready to discover it with us?

The history of Calendimaggio – from its origins to the present day

With its roots in the ancient spring celebrations of the medieval era, Assisi’s Calendimaggio was officially established in 1954 with the aim of reviving and promoting the city’s historical and folk traditions. The event draws inspiration from the festivals which, as far back as the Middle Ages, marked the transition from winter to the season of rebirth, with singing, dancing and competitions between neighbourhoods.

                             The rivalry between the two sides, Calendimaggio in Assisi – image taken from the event’s official social media profile

The undisputed stars of the event are the town’s two historic factions, the Parte de Sopra and the Parte de Sotto, who compete in an artistic contest featuring costumed parades, theatrical performances, music and re-enactments of medieval life. Over the years, Calendimaggio has grown to become one of Italy’s most important historical re-enactments, involving hundreds of participants and thousands of visitors, whilst maintaining a strong link with local traditions and the cultural heritage of Assisi.

To find out more about its history, click here.

Calendimaggio 2026 – the programme and what’s new

The 2026 edition will span four action-packed days, during which the entire historic centre of Assisi will be transformed into an authentic medieval setting. The celebrations will kick off with the opening ceremony and the handing over of the keys to the city, followed by the evocative historical processions of the two Parties. The highlights of the event will be the contests between the Parte de Sopra and the Parte de Sotto, featuring musical performances, theatrical performances and spectacular night-time re-enactments, meticulously crafted to evoke the atmosphere and events of the past. There will be no shortage of medieval banquets, performances by flag-wavers and musicians, and scenes throughout the town brought to life by artisans and costumed participants. 

                                        Evening procession, Calendimaggio in Assisi – image taken from the event’s official social media profile

The winning group will be decided by a jury of experts, who will assess the historical accuracy, artistic quality and interpretative skill of the performances. As is traditional, the final verdict is one of the most eagerly awaited and engaging moments of the entire event.

To view the full programme, click here.

Tickets and further information

Calendimaggio is partly free, with many activities open to all in the town’s streets, whilst tickets must be purchased online to attend the main shows and evening performances – these are currently sold out.

Assisi is easily accessible by train, as Assisi station is connected to the main towns in Umbria, or by car, via the motorway network and regional roads. For those arriving from outside the region, connections are available to the airports of Perugia and Rome.

Don’t miss one of the most evocative events in Italian tradition, capable of transforming Assisi into a real journey back in time!

Discover the other beauties of Umbria too – click here!