Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene joined the Monegasque community on Saturday for the traditional U Cavagnëtu picnic, accompanied by their children, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella…
Around 800 Monegasques gathered at Parc Princesse Antoinette for the annual celebration, which combines music, dance, food and tradition in one of the Principality’s most convivial community occasions.
Organised each year by Monaco City Hall, U Cavagnëtu has become an important opportunity for generations of Monegasques to come together with the Princely Family and celebrate their shared heritage.
The festivities included traditional dancing by La Palladienne, whilst an open-air Holy Mass was celebrated with the participation of the U Cantin d’A Roca choir. Monegasque language, music and gastronomy also played an important role throughout the gathering.
The picnic in its present form was revived in 1991, although its roots stretch back considerably further, reflecting Monaco’s longstanding tradition of bringing its community together around the Princely Family.
The evening concluded with another much-loved custom as the Princely Family broke the fougasse; a traditional Monegasque bread, and shared it with those attending, providing a fitting finale to a celebration centred on heritage, community and conviviality.
Image: Prince’s Palace