Missing Calendimaggio in Assisi

Today would have been the first day of the annual Calendimaggio in Assisi.  This 3-day annual festival, which begins the first Thursday after May 1, celebrates the beginning of spring, dating back to Roman times, and the rivalry of the “upper” and “lower” towns dating back to the 14th century.

For the citizens of Assisi, it must be especially hard.  Normally for this festival, the streets would be filled with medieval costumes, jesters, music as the town becomes medieval Assisi for 3 days.

When I was there in December, the bands from the two parts paraded through town.  I asked a few Assisanos what they were doing, why the parade?  They just kind of shrugged, like it was a normal event.  The best I got was that it was kind of like a pre-announcement, an ad if you will, or just part of the Christmas celebration by the two parts.  I can say that they were definitely enjoying it.

These are the same bands who would be in their medieval costumes today, tomorrow and Saturday as part of their ongoing Calendimaggio fun rivalry.

I plan to be there next year, May 5-8, 2021.  If you plan to go, plan early.  It is very popular and accommodation fills quickly.