The annual gathering of the 'Black Feathers' in the heart of the Mugello
In the Apennine village of Firenzuola, located in the heart of the Mugello and the Metropolitan City of Florence (Tuscany), the Alpini Festival is one of the most heartfelt events of early summer. Organized by the Firenzuola Alpini Group, part of the A.N.A. Florence Section, the event celebrates the values of solidarity, memory, and civic commitment that define the 'Black Feathers' (penne nere). In 2026, the festival reached its 39th edition.
The day draws numerous delegations to Firenzuola: groups from neighboring Tuscan towns are joined by 'Black Feathers' from Emilia-Romagna and Verona, confirming how the festival transcends regional borders. It is a moment of encounter and sharing that perfectly embodies the Alpini spirit, summarized by the motto "Honoring the dead by helping the living."
The morning follows the ritual dear to the Alpini: meeting at the group's headquarters, the flag-raising and wreath-laying at the war memorials, the parade through the town streets accompanied by a band, and the Holy Mass animated by Alpini choirs. The festival concludes with an outdoor lunch prepared by volunteers at the headquarters, filled with singing and camaraderie.
The Alpini Festival involves the entire Firenzuola community: the municipal administration, the local police, and volunteer associations like the Misericordia all participate, alongside the many citizens who fill the village streets. It is also an opportunity to thank the Alpini for their constant and active presence during local festivals and emergencies.
Nestled along the Santerno Valley, on the Apennine slope connecting Tuscany to Emilia-Romagna, Firenzuola is a town with a strong mountain identity, famous for its 'pietra serena' stone craftsmanship. The Alpini Festival is one of its most authentic expressions: a June weekend where historical memory, tradition, and hospitality blend into a genuine, popular atmosphere.
On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Firenzuola celebrated the 39th Alpini Festival, organized by the local Alpini Group of the A.N.A. Florence Section. The event drew numerous Alpini groups from neighboring Tuscan towns, as well as delegations from Emilia-Romagna and Verona.
The Dozza Marching Band accompanied the parade and ceremonies. The municipal administration, the Carabinieri Association (retired), the local police, and the Misericordia took part in the day. After paying honors to the Fallen, the festival continued with the customary outdoor lunch prepared by volunteers, upholding the values of solidarity and service that unite the Alpini beyond regional borders.
Mid-June. The 2026 edition (39th) took place on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Firenzuola (FI), in the Mugello region. The meeting point and lunch are held at the Alpini Group headquarters; the parade and ceremonies take place along the town center streets and at the war memorials.
By car: from Florence via the SS65 Futa road, or from the A1 motorway (exit Barberino di Mugello or Pian del Voglio) towards the Santerno Valley. The nearest train station is in Borgo San Lorenzo, which is connected by bus lines to Firenzuola.
Participation in the ceremonies is free and open to all; the convivial lunch is organized by the group's volunteers.
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Sede del Gruppo Alpini di Firenzuola