The traditional Monegasque picnic, known as ‘U Cavagnëtu’, will take place on Saturday 19th September at the Parc Princesse Antoinette.
Exclusively reserved for Monegasque citizens and their spouses, the evening will commence at 6pm with an open-air mass held on the park’s multi-sports pitch. Following the religious service, guests will gather for a convivial social picnic accompanied by live musical entertainment and various activities.
Cultural background and heritage
Organised annually by the Mairie de Monaco, ‘U Cavagnëtu’ marks the symbolic end of the summer season and serves as a major community gathering for citizens of the Principality. Rooted in local heritage, the word ‘cavagnëtu’ traditionally refers to the picnic basket packed with provisions for a day out in nature. Over the decades, the event has evolved into a beloved tradition where local residents and members of the Princely family come together in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Attendees traditionally enjoy regional culinary specialties—such as pissaladière, socca, and barbagiuans—while celebrating Monegasque culture.
Practical information and travel
Access to the Parc Princesse Antoinette will open at 5:15pm, and proof of identity will be required at all entry points.Travel on the Monaco bus network and parking at the Jardin Exotique will be free of charge from 5pm onwards upon presentation of a Monegasque identity card.
Venue closures and facility access
To accommodate the organisation of the event, the Parc Princesse Antoinette will be closed to the general public from Monday 14th to Wednesday 23rd September 2026 inclusive.
Visitors should note that Le Cabanon des Jeux will remain open during this period via the Boulevard de Belgique entrance, with the sole exception of the event day on 19th September. Additionally, the park’s mini-golf facility will be closed from 17th to 21st September inclusive.
Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, listen to our podcasts on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.
‘U Cavagnëtu’ picnic 2024. Photo credit: Mairie de Monaco, Ed Wright Images