Brüsom la Vecia in Calcinatello
The rite of burning the Old Woman to bid farewell to winter
About Brüsom la Vecia
The Burning of the Old Woman
Brüsom la Vecia — literally "let's burn the Old Woman" in the Brescian dialect — is one of the most characteristic popular traditions of the province of Brescia. In Calcinatello, a hamlet of the Municipality of Calcinato, the rite takes place at the oratory: a large effigy representing the Old Woman is set ablaze, a symbolic gesture marking the end of winter and a wish for spring and future harvests.
A Community Evening
The evening begins with the opening of the food stand, where you can enjoy bread, salami, and the simple specialties of local cuisine. After the convivial moment comes the rite of the burning, around which the entire community gathers: families, children, and the elderly share the warmth of the bonfire in a popular festive atmosphere.
A Tradition That Endures
Like many "Vecchia" bonfires spread across the Lombard plain, Calcinatello's Brüsom la Vecia preserves an ancient rite linked to the cycles of the earth and seasons. It is an event that speaks of identity and belonging, capable of keeping alive a peasant memory that the town renews year after year.
Brüsom la Vecia — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of Brüsom la Vecia takes place on Thursday, March 12, at the oratory of Calcinatello. The evening begins at 7:30 PM with the opening of the food stand (bread and salami) and continues with the rite of burning the "Vecia", the bonfire that sets fire to the effigy of the Old Woman according to Brescian popular tradition.
Programme Brüsom la Vecia 2026
Thursday, March 12
- 7:30 PM — Opening of the food stand (bread and salami)
- Following — Rite of burning the "Vecia"
Highlights Brüsom la Vecia 2026
Prices Brüsom la Vecia 2026
Practical information — Brüsom la Vecia
When
Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 7:30 PM.
Where
Oratory of Calcinatello, hamlet of Calcinato (BS).
How to get there
Calcinato is located along the Brescia-Lake Garda route, reachable by car from the A4 (Brescia Est or Desenzano exit) and the relevant provincial road. Calcinatello is a hamlet of the Municipality.
Evening Program
From 7:30 PM, opening of the food stand with bread and salami; followed by the rite of burning the Old Woman.
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Where does it take place — Brüsom la Vecia
Oratorio di Calcinatello