Under the shade of ancient olive trees in Parc Princesse Antoinette, the heart of Monaco’s tight-knit community comes alive for one of the year’s most anticipated events: U Cavagnëtu. This past Saturday, September 7, 2024, saw close to 900 Monegasques gathering in the historic park for a day of food, music, and tradition, all with the Princely Family in attendance. The end-of-summer air was filled with the sound of laughter, the scent of barbecues, and the unmistakable feeling of unity.
Mayor Georges Marsan kicked off the festivities, welcoming Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene, and their children, as well as other members of the Princely Family. It wasn’t long before the park buzzed with excitement as the Palladienne dancers performed, and Monsignor Dominique-Marie David led an outdoor Mass. The beautiful melodies of the U Cantin d’A Roca choir rang through the park, their songs reinforcing a connection to Monaco’s cultural roots.
Then came the food. And what a spread it was. Traditional dishes like socca and fougasse were offered, alongside picnic baskets that families had packed for the occasion. The highlight for many was the freshly made *fresciœi di baccalà*—crispy cod fritters from the nearby Liguria region, prepared on-site as part of Monaco’s special connection with Dolceacqua.
This year’s picnic wasn’t just about eating, though. New activities delighted the crowd, from a grand ball on the sports ground where guests danced away, to workshops where children learned the art of basket-making. The vibrant tunes of a jazz quartet, led by Lionel Vaudano, filled the park’s winding paths, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that lingered…
Parc Princesse Antoinette itself is much more than a venue. With its century-old olive groves, rescued by Prince Albert I in 1917, the park is a symbol of Monaco’s preservation of nature and tradition. Named in 1923 after Princess Antoinette, the park has evolved into a beloved family destination, home to a mini-golf course, petting zoo, and a variety of sports facilities. Throughout the year, it hosts countless community events, from Easter egg hunts to children’s workshops.
For the Monegasque community, U Cavagnëtu is more than just a picnic. It’s a time to reconnect with heritage, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the natural beauty of one of Monaco’s most treasured green spaces. The picnic ended with the final notes of the jazz quartet fading in the air and families left the park with full hearts, already looking forward to next year’s gathering.
