Brusa la Vecia – Bonfire of the Befana
The Epiphany bonfire that closes the festivities in Lonigo
About Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo
A Propitiatory Ritual of Venetian Tradition
Brusa la Vecia ("burn the old woman") is one of the oldest folk traditions of rural Veneto and is renewed every year in Lonigo, in the Vicenza area, on the evening of Epiphany. In Via Castelgiuncoli, the Gruppo Alpini of Lonigo sets fire to the large effigy of the old woman, in a bonfire that symbolically marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one.
Omens in the Smoke and Sparks
The ritual has its roots in the farming world: according to popular belief, the direction of the smoke and the flight of the sparks are used to draw omens about the agricultural year and the future of the community. It is a moment of strong identity value, which brings families together around the fire in the heart of winter.
The Community Festival
The event, organized in collaboration with the Municipality of Lonigo, concludes the rich calendar of the city's Christmas festivities. Adults and children gather around the bonfire, in a convivial atmosphere that combines tradition, alpine spirit, and a sense of belonging to the town.
Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo — edition 2026
On January 6, 2026, Epiphany Day, the Gruppo Alpini of Lonigo will light the traditional bonfire of the Befana in Via Castelgiuncoli. The burning of the old woman's effigy concludes the "Christmas in Lonigo" program and renews the propitiatory ritual for the new year.
Programme Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo 2026
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 — Via Castelgiuncoli
- Lighting of the Befana bonfire (Brusa la Vecia) by the Gruppo Alpini of Lonigo
- Traditional reading of omens from the smoke and sparks of the bonfire
- Convivial moment for the community to close the Christmas festivities
Highlights Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo 2026
Prices Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo 2026
Practical information — Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo
How to get there
Lonigo is reachable from the Montebello Vicentina (A4) motorway exit and from the SR500. The bonfire takes place in Via Castelgiuncoli.
Admission
Free and outdoor event. Appropriate clothing for the winter season is recommended.
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Where does it take place — Brusa la Vecia – Lonigo
Via Castelgiuncoli, Lonigo
Via Castelgiuncoli, 36045 Lonigo