Boccioleto Carnival

The Boccioleto Carnival, the soul of Valsermenza

In the heart of the Valsermenza valley, a side valley of the Valsesia watered by the Sermenza and Cavaione streams, the small village of Boccioleto (Province of Vercelli, Piedmont) preserves one of the most authentic alpine carnivals in the region. Here, between late January and February, the entire village of just over 170 inhabitants gathers around its historic masks and traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Gianperu and Catlina, the village masks

The absolute stars of the festival are Gianperu and Catlina, the two symbolic masks of the Boccioleto Carnival. A group of performers revolves around them, staying active throughout all the events, from the collection tour in the hamlets to the final celebrations. It is in their honor that the famous Gran Ballo della Catlina is held, the highlight evening that takes place in the Boccioleto Theater and attracts carnival committees from neighboring towns every year, all arriving to pay homage to Gianperu, Catlina, and their entourage.

The paniccia, the dish that unites the valley

As in all Valsesia carnivals, the most anticipated moment in Boccioleto is the paniccia (also known as busecca): a rich vegetable soup enriched with salami or tripe, cooked in large cauldrons and distributed for free to the population. Carnival Sunday, preceded by a blessing, culminates in a community lunch in the theater, filled with singing, joy, and a festive atmosphere.

A festival for the whole community

The Boccioleto Carnival is organized by the Carnival Committee in collaboration with the local Pro Loco and with the support of the municipal administration. Every village in the valley has its own committee and organizes the carnival period according to its own traditional customs: in Boccioleto, the festival closes with the burning of the Gianperu, the dinner of nervetti, and the reading of the will, an ironic and collective ritual that puts the final touch on the carnival season.