Gubbio events: Festa dei Ceri, Crossbow Palio and Christmas
The traditions that shape a stay in Gubbio, with official sources and practical planning notes.
In Gubbio, major events are part of the city’s identity rather than an optional extra. They can also change accommodation demand, parking and access to the historic centre. Dates and operating arrangements should always be checked on official pages before travel.
Festa dei Ceri
The Festa dei Ceri takes place every year on 15 May, the eve of the feast of Saint Ubaldo. Three tall wooden structures bearing statues of Saint Ubaldo, Saint George and Saint Anthony are carried through the city and up Mount Ingino to the basilica.
The programme begins earlier in the day and includes the raising of the Ceri in Piazza Grande before the afternoon route. This is Gubbio’s defining celebration, with dense crowds and major traffic changes. Do not plan an ordinary sightseeing day around the same streets without consulting the municipal notices.
Crossbow Palio
The Palio della Balestra is traditionally held on the last Sunday of May in Piazza Grande. Crossbowmen from Gubbio and Sansepolcro compete in historical costume, accompanied by flag throwers and a procession through the city.
The square is the event venue, so access to the surrounding area differs from a normal day. Confirm the current programme and ticket information through the municipality or tourist office.
Ceri Mezzani and Ceri Piccoli
The traditions of the Ceri continue with celebrations involving younger generations. These dates are locally significant and may also bring temporary traffic restrictions. Their annual notices provide the reliable details for circulation and the exact programme.
Summer at the Roman Theatre
The Roman Theatre hosts a cultural season with theatre, music and other performances. The 2026 season was the sixty-fifth edition, confirming the archaeological site’s continuing role as an event venue. Programme dates change each year, so consult the current municipal culture pages before building a stay around a specific performance.
Christmas in Gubbio
From early December into January, the illuminated Christmas tree on Mount Ingino becomes the city’s most visible seasonal landmark. The municipality’s permanent information page describes the traditional period as 7 December to 10 January, while the exact ceremony and supporting events are announced separately each year.
The Via del Presepe in the San Martino quarter is another established seasonal tradition. Christmas programmes can affect evening traffic and parking, particularly on opening weekends.
Planning a stay around an event
Use the event date to choose the area, not just the property. A central stay offers atmosphere and walking access, while a lower-town or countryside property may simplify parking. Confirm access, check-in arrangements and the official traffic plan directly; BnB.city does not claim live availability or event-specific prices.
Sources checked
• Municipality of Gubbio — events overview ↗
• Municipality of Gubbio — Festa dei Ceri ↗
Updated: 2026-10-15