La Bella Vita is our regular look at the real culture of Italy – from language to cuisine, manners to art. This newsletter is published weekly, and you can receive it directly to your inbox: go to newsletter preferences in 'My Account' or follow the instructions in the newsletter box below.
Buona Festa del Lavoro.
It’s primo maggio (May 1st) today – a holiday celebrated in Italy by exercising the right to protest and party.
For many in Italy, Labour Day isn't just a day off work but also a day of action, with unions and other organizations holding rallies and marches to campaign for workers' rights and other social issues.
But the unions also know how to have a good time.
In the evening of Labour Day, Italian trade unions Cgil, Cisl and Uil put on the annual concertone in Rome, billed as Europe’s largest free live music event. Dozens of popular Italian musical acts, such as Arisa, Pierpaolo Spollon and BigMama, will perform this year.
Music, parades and picnics: How Italy celebrates Labour Day on May 1st
From new laws on labour, security and immigration to special museum openings and new flight routes across Europe and North America, there are many changes coming up this month.
On a practical note, you’ll want to plan ahead for a month that’s particularly rife with strikes, including three dates of general national blackout.
But there are also exciting events, such as the iconic Giro d’Italia bicycle race. And don’t forget to put Mother’s Day in your calendar.
Here’s everything you need to know about this May:
Everything that changes in Italy in May 2026
The summer solstice may not be until late June, but in Italy, May is usually when it starts feeling like summer. In the punishing heat, the routine of shooting a scalding cup of espresso can leave you feeling a bit sweaty. But of course it’s not as easy as saying ‘addio’ to caffè for the summer.
Even though it’s rare to find an iced latte or cold brew in Italy, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options for a refreshing coffee drink. If you want to be able to sip and savour your brew this summer season, you can opt for an Italian recipe of cold coffee (caffè freddo).
From a bubbly espresso tonic to a mousse-like caffè crema, try one of these refreshing coffee drinks next time you need a caffeine fix.
Six cold Italian coffee options to keep cool and caffeinated this summer
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