Festeenval

A festival made by teenagers

Festeenval is a unique festival on the scene in Pavia, the capital of its province in Lombardy: young people themselves conceive and organise it, a group of boys and girls aged 15 to 19 coordinated by Arci Pavia and supported by educators and facilitators. The name itself, playing on the English word "teen", tells the identity of an event designed by teenagers for their peers and for the city.

Ideas, discussion, and creativity

The day opens in the afternoon in Piazza Leonardo Da Vinci with moments of debate on topics dear to young people — from political participation to sexual and affective education — and with creative workshops such as woodcut printing (linoleum printing) and the art of henna. It is a space for expression and discussion, where young people can test themselves and bring out their passions.

Music takes centre stage

In the evening, the square transforms into a stage: five emerging local bands take turns on stage, followed by a DJ set. Music is the beating heart of Festeenval, an expression of Pavia's youth scene and an opportunity to give visibility to local talents.

Empowering young people

Festeenval was born with a clear objective: to empower young people, giving them the tools and confidence to organise a public event themselves. Supported by the Municipality of Pavia, the festival is a concrete example of youth protagonism and active citizenship, capable of animating the city with the energy and ideas of its teenagers.