Cavaglià Charity Carnival

A community carnival in the Lower Biella area

In the heart of Piedmont, in the small town of Cavaglià in the Province of Biella, one of the region's most beloved carnivals takes place every year: the Charity Carnival. Organized since 1974 by the Cavaglià Charity Carnival Committee, the event has a dual spirit: on one hand, a popular festival filled with confetti, masks, and joy; on the other, a commitment to solidarity, as the proceeds from the initiatives are donated to local community projects and social causes.

The Fagiolata, the ritual that brings the town together

The most anticipated and iconic moment is undoubtedly the Fagiolata. On the carnival's main morning, in Piazza Artiglieri d'Italia, dozens of cauldrons are lit to prepare the traditional bean soup: the most recent edition featured 64 cauldrons and 7 quintals of beans, cooked in the open air to the music of the Cavaglià Philharmonic. After the blessing, the dish is tasted and distributed for free to the entire population in a great moment of conviviality that draws both locals and visitors from neighboring towns.

Parades, masks, and fun for everyone

The program spans several days and includes the Children's Carnival at the Polivalente, with entertainment, confetti, and masked fun, as well as lunches and dinners in the food tent featuring local dishes, a dance hall, and a masquerade ball. The grand finale features the carnival parade through the town streets, led by local authorities, masked participants, and community associations, followed by a Holy Mass in memory of deceased carnival members and a closing lunch.

A tradition that lives on

With over half a century of history, the Cavaglià Charity Carnival is a staple of the Lower Biella festive calendar and an example of how the Piedmontese carnival tradition can successfully combine celebration with social commitment. It is an event to be enjoyed with the family, free of charge during its most popular moments, capable of transforming this small town in the Province of Biella into a gathering point for the entire valley.