The festival of gratitude in Ayas, dedicated to the elders and traditions of the Val d'Ayas
The Féhta da Récognéchentsa, in Italian Festa della Riconoscenza, takes place every year in Antagnod, one of the most characteristic hamlets of the municipality of Ayas, in the heart of the Val d'Ayas (province of Aosta). It is a community festival in the fullest sense of the word: a moment of meeting with the elderly to thank them for what they know how to pass on and teach to new generations.
The festival is organized by the folk group Li Tsoque d'Ayas, founded in 1934 with the aim of keeping local traditions alive as an authentic expression of the past of mountain communities. Since then, several generations of young people and families have passed on the baton, preserving through dance and song the memory of what has characterized life in Ayas. During the Féhta, the children of the group liven up the day, bringing joy to the elders who watch them.
The afternoon on the Fratelli square in Antagnod opens with performances in traditional costume by the group and with songs by the children of the village primary school. There are also convivial moments around the table, with Aosta Valley cuisine made of polenta, grilled meats, and local products, and dances that involve the entire community. It is a precious opportunity to discover the Ayas patois – the very name of the festival, Féhta da Récognéchentsa, is a testament to this – and the attachment of this corner of the Aosta Valley to its roots.
The 2026 edition of the Féhta da Récognéchentsa is scheduled in Antagnod, a hamlet of Ayas, on the weekend of June 5-7, 2026. The heart of the event is the afternoon on the Fratelli square, with traditional costume dances and songs by the Li Tsoque d'Ayas group and entertainment provided by the children of the village primary school, who bring joy to the community's elders. The festival continues with convivial moments and the flavours of Aosta Valley tradition.
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be published by the Li Tsoque d'Ayas group closer to the festival. Based on previous editions, the main day includes:
For the final program, please refer to the channels of the Li Tsoque d'Ayas Association and the municipality of Ayas.
Antagnod is a hamlet of Ayas, in the Val d'Ayas (Aosta Valley). By car, you can reach it from the A5 motorway, exit Verrès, and drive up the valley towards Champoluc. The festival takes place on the Fratelli square, in the centre of Antagnod.
The event is free to enter. Any gastronomic events may require a contribution.
Li Tsoque d'Ayas Association – tel. +39 345 9559117, [email protected]. It is advisable to check the dates on the channels of the municipality of Ayas and the Champoluc tourist office.
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Piazzale Fratelli, Antagnod (Ayas)
Piazzale Fratelli, Antagnod, 11020 Ayas