Centenary Celebrations of the Pray Pianceri Alpini Group

One hundred years of Alpini in Pray

During the weekend of June 5–7, 2026, the town of Pray, in the Province of Biella and the heart of the Valsessera valley, hosted an event of deep identity: the centenary celebrations of the Pray Pianceri Alpini Group. Founded in 1926, the group has been a cornerstone of the local community for a century, upholding the values of solidarity, memory, and civic commitment typical of the Piedmontese 'black feathers'. The celebration was promoted by the group itself under the ANA Valsesiana Section, with the patronage of the Municipality of Pray and the collaboration of the Pro Loco.

Three days of memory and celebration

The program spanned three intense days, blending historical significance with conviviality. It was an anniversary that drew citizens, authorities, associations, banners, and pennants from across the Valsesia and Biella regions.

• Friday, June 5, 9:00 PM, at the multipurpose hall: presentation of the volume dedicated to the group's history and the military life of officer Gilberto Gilibert, with speeches by General (Ret.) Pino Vaccino and author Tiziano Bozio Madè.
• Saturday, June 6, 9:00 PM, at the Church of Santa Rita: an evening of alpine songs featuring the choirs « Alpin dal Rosa » and « Cesare Rinaldo ».
• Sunday, June 7: the highlight of the event, featuring a gathering at Piazzale Lora Totino, the parade of the 'black feathers', Holy Mass at the Church of Santa Rita, the wreath-laying at the War Memorial, and the inauguration of a commemorative monument dedicated to the Alpini of Italy, followed by a community lunch at the multipurpose hall hosted by Pro Loco volunteers.

A heritage of values

More than just a festival, the centenary was an opportunity to reaffirm the deep bond between the Alpini and the Valsessera territory. The book presentation allowed for the rediscovery of a century of history made of people, sacrifices, and commitment; the choral evenings brought the alpine tradition to life; and Sunday combined solemnity with popular celebration. The Municipality had invited citizens to display the Italian tricolor as a sign of participation.

Pray and the Valsessera

Nestled between the Biella and Valsesia regions, the Valsessera area is a land of mountains, ancient manufacturing traditions, and a strong community spirit. Events like this confirm how military and volunteer associations remain a vital part of the identity of Northern Piedmontese towns, capable of uniting different generations around a shared memory.