February 17th — Waldensian Celebrations of Pomaretto / Inverso Pinasca

The Festival of Freedom in the Waldensian valleys

February 17th is the most significant date in the Waldensian calendar: it commemorates the day in 1848 when King Charles Albert signed the Letters Patent, granting civil and political rights to the Waldensians of Piedmont and ending centuries of discrimination. This is why it is known as the Festival of Freedom, a deeply felt event across all the villages of the Pinerolo valleys, particularly in the communities of Pomaretto and Inverso Pinasca, two municipalities in the Metropolitan City of Turin with deep roots in the evangelical history of the Chisone and Germanasca valleys.

The eve bonfires

Celebrations begin on the evening of February 16th, when traditional bonfires are lit on the hills and panoramic viewpoints of the valleys. These fires are the quintessential symbol of the festival, recalling the beacons once used by communities scattered across the slopes to signal the news of their emancipation to one another. In Pomaretto, the evening opens with a gathering in front of the temple and a torchlight procession organized with the Sunday School, which leads participants to the lighting of the bonfire.

Processions, bands, and the service on February 17th

On the morning of February 17th, two processions set off: one from the Fleccia hamlet in Inverso Pinasca and the other from the Pomaretto temple, both accompanied by the historic marching bands of Inverso Pinasca and Pomaretto. The processions converge for the solemn service at the Waldensian temple in Pomaretto, the centerpiece of the day. At noon, the festivities continue with a community lunch at the Inverso Pinasca multipurpose hall, a perfect occasion for the entire community to come together.

Waldensian theater in the evening

Tradition dictates that the day concludes with a performance by the Filodrammatica (amateur dramatic society) at the Pomaretto Waldensian theater—a beloved custom that blends historical memory, comedy, and community life. The Waldensian folk theater is an integral part of the festival and attracts audiences from all over the valleys.

A heritage of identity

More than just a religious anniversary, February 17th is a moment of collective memory and identity for the towns of Pomaretto and Inverso Pinasca and the entire Waldensian territory of the Pinerolo area. Bonfires, processions, bands, worship services, and theater tell a story of freedom of conscience that continues to be celebrated from generation to generation.