Caprile and Ailoche Carnival Bean Festival
The traditional Carnival bean festival in Caprile and Ailoche, in the heart of the Biella region
About Vettù Bean Festival
A Carnival tradition in the Biella region
The Caprile and Ailoche Carnival Bean Festival is one of the most heartfelt Carnival events in the small towns of the upper Valsessera valley, in the province of Biella. Caprile, a village of just under two hundred inhabitants nestled at an altitude of about 560 meters, and the nearby town of Ailoche share this festive moment every year, which has deep roots in the peasant culture of the Piedmont region.
The highlight of the day is the fagiolata, the typical Biella bean soup, expertly cooked in large cauldrons and distributed for free to all attendees. It is a humble yet hearty dish, a symbol of the conviviality of these mountain communities during the coldest months of the year.
The Vettù and Berta Carnival
The event is organized by the Ailoche Pro Loco in collaboration with the Vettù and Berta Carnival group, the local masks that bring the festival to life. The bean festival is also known as the Vettù Bean Festival, named after the traditional mask that represents the town's Carnival identity.
According to custom, in the days leading up to the festival, a cart would travel from house to house to collect beans, salami, lard, and firewood—the ingredients needed to prepare the soup. This ritual of collective participation reflects the community spirit that still keeps this tradition alive today between Ailoche, Caprile, and neighboring towns like Crevacuore.
A festival for everyone
The distribution of the bean soup is free and open to all. Those who wish can enjoy the soup directly at the Pro Loco headquarters or take it home with the classic takeaway service. It is a simple and genuine opportunity to discover the traditions of the Piedmontese Carnival away from the big crowds, in an authentic and welcoming mountain setting.
- Free distribution of Biella-style bean soup
- Traditional Vettù and Berta Carnival masks
- Option to eat on-site or take away
- Involvement of the towns of Caprile, Ailoche, and surrounding areas
Vettù Bean Festival — edition 2026
La Fagiolata di Carnevale a Caprile e Ailoche è tornata domenica 15 febbraio 2026, confermandosi tra gli appuntamenti più tradizionali del Carnevale in alta Valsessera. La manifestazione è stata inserita nel calendario degli eventi del weekend del 14 e 15 febbraio nel Biellese.
Anche per il 2026, la Pro Loco di Ailoche e il gruppo del Carnevale Vettù e Berta hanno curato la preparazione e la distribuzione gratuita della fagiolata, la classica minestra di fagioli del territorio, coinvolgendo gli abitanti di Caprile, Ailoche e dei centri vicini in una giornata di festa all'insegna delle tradizioni locali.
Programme Vettù Bean Festival 2026
Domenica 15 febbraio 2026
Distribuzione gratuita della fagiolata tradizionale presso la sede della Pro Loco di Ailoche, con coinvolgimento del Comune di Caprile. Secondo le modalità consolidate negli anni, la distribuzione si svolge in tarda mattinata (a partire dalle ore 11 circa, fino a metà giornata), con possibilità di consumo in loco o d'asporto. La giornata è animata dalle maschere tradizionali del Carnevale Vettù e Berta.
Highlights Vettù Bean Festival 2026
- Distribuzione gratuita della fagiolata biellese
- Maschere tradizionali del Carnevale Vettù e Berta
- Festa condivisa tra Caprile, Ailoche e i centri vicini
Prices Vettù Bean Festival 2026
Practical information — Vettù Bean Festival
Location
The distribution takes place at the Ailoche Pro Loco headquarters and involves the nearby town of Caprile, in the upper Valsessera valley (Biella province, Piedmont).
How to get there
By car from Biella, you can reach Caprile and Ailoche in about 30-40 minutes by driving up the Valsessera valley; the villages are about fifteen kilometers from the provincial capital. The reference train station is Biella, from which you can continue by car.
Costs and reservations
The bean soup is distributed free of charge. In previous years, reservations were requested a few days before the event by contacting the Ailoche Pro Loco representatives; it is advisable to check the updated procedures with the Pro Loco before the event.
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Where does it take place — Vettù Bean Festival
Sede Pro Loco di Ailoche