Masked Evening

The evening that ignites the Salussola Carnival

The Masked Evening marks the opening of the Carnival of Salussola, a small town in the province of Biella, Piedmont, known in the local dialect as "Al nos Carvè", meaning "our Carnival." It is the night when the town's traditional masks are officially presented to the public and symbolically take the reins of the village for the duration of the festivities.

Monsieur Suclun and the Madama

The undisputed stars are the two historic Salussola masks: Monsieur Suclun and his Madama. They are the ones who receive the keys to the town in a well-attended ceremony, accompanied by a brass band and many local citizens. The role of Monsieur Suclun is traditionally entrusted to a prominent figure from the Pro Loco, highlighting the deep bond between the association and the festival.

A half-century-old tradition

The Salussola Carnival is a well-established tradition with roots dating back to the 1970s; in 2024, the event celebrated its 50th anniversary. Since then, every winter, the Biellese village transforms, with the Masked Evening serving as the prelude to a multi-day program of dances, social gatherings, and traditional dishes.

Atmosphere and highlights

• The official presentation of the masks and the handing over of the town keys.
• Musical accompaniment by the band, which brings the evening to life.
• The children's dance in the afternoon and dance parties for adults.
• The famous fagiolata (bean stew) by the Pro Loco, a highly anticipated gastronomic moment and a typical dish of the Piedmontese Carnival.

A community celebration

More than just an event, the Masked Evening is a collective ritual that brings together families from Salussola and the surrounding area. Organized entirely by the Salussola Pro Loco, it represents one of the strongest identity-defining moments for the town and the Biellese Carnival, passing on a deep attachment to the village and its traditions from generation to generation.