A.N.A. Alpine Sectional Gathering of Alessandria

The 'Black Feathers' in Serravalle Scrivia

The Alpine Sectional Gathering of the Alessandria Section of the National Alpine Association (A.N.A.) is one of the most cherished events in the Piedmontese Alpine calendar. Each year, the event is hosted by a different municipality within the section's territory: in 2026, the honor falls to Serravalle Scrivia, in the Province of Alessandria, which welcomes the 'Black Feathers' to mark the 57th Anniversary of the Founding of the Alessandria Section.

The gathering brings together Alpine Groups from across the entire section, with their pennants, sectional banners, and a massive turnout of active and retired Alpini, friends of the Alpini, and local citizens. It is a popular celebration that weaves together the memory of the fallen, the values of solidarity and service inherent to the Alpine Corps, and the warm hospitality of a village in the Scrivia Valley.

Two days of remembrance and celebration

The event spans two days. Saturday is dedicated to reflection and spirituality: the commemoration at the cemetery in honor of the fallen, the sung Holy Mass at the Collegiate Parish Church of Santi Martino e Stefano, and a concert by the Valtanaro Alpine Choir, which brings the repertoire of mountain songs and Alpine tradition to the town square.

Sunday is the highlight, featuring the assembly, the flag-raising ceremony at the Alpine Monument, and the grand parade that winds through the streets of Serravalle Scrivia with the marching band, the various groups, and their standards. The procession culminates in the laying of a laurel wreath at the War Memorial in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, followed by honors and speeches from local authorities.

The Alpine spirit and the community

The convivial heart of the gathering is the Alpine lunch, organized by local groups and the Pro Loco and open to everyone: a moment of friendship that renews the spirit of brotherhood characterizing the world of the 'Black Feathers'. Between field kitchens, tricolor flags, and spontaneous singing, the day becomes a true village festival.

For Serravalle Scrivia and the entire Province of Alessandria, the Sectional Gathering is also an opportunity to promote the Scrivia Valley and its traditions, in a region of Piedmont that holds a deep bond with the history of the Alpini and the values of memory and service they represent.