New Year's Torchlight Procession

The New Year's Torchlight Procession in Spiazzo Rendena

The New Year's Torchlight Procession is one of the most evocative traditions of the first day of the year in Val Rendena. Every January 1st at 9:00 PM, a parade of torches departs from the center of Spiazzo (Municipality of Spiazzo, Autonomous Province of Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige) and travels through the village to the hamlet of Villa Rendena. It is a moment of community that brings together residents and the many visitors spending their winter holidays in the valley, in a quiet and deeply alpine atmosphere.

A walk among the nativity scenes of the "Abbraccio di Luce"

The procession is the highlight of "Abbraccio di Luce - Presepi in Val Rendena", the exhibition that brings Spiazzo to life from December 23rd to January 7th with dozens of nativity scenes created by local families, associations, and groups. The nativity scenes, scattered along the streets and courtyards, can be visited for free every day from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, but it is during the New Year's Eve procession that they take on their most intense charm, illuminated by the trail of torches.

Mulled wine and bonfires in Villa Rendena

At the end of the route in Villa Rendena, participants are welcomed around a large bonfire with mulled wine and sweets, offered by volunteers. It is the most convivial moment of the evening, where people exchange wishes for the year ahead in the warmth of the fire, looking out toward the peaks of the Brenta Dolomites. A convenient free shuttle service is provided for the return trip to the starting point.

A tradition by Pro Loco Spiazzo

The event is organized by Pro Loco Spiazzo, in coordination with the Consorzio Pro Loco Val Rendena, and is part of the valley's rich Christmas calendar. Other events revolve around the procession, such as concerts of Christmas and mountain carols held in the following days between the parish church and the municipal theater of Spiazzo. A genuine way to start the year in the spirit of the popular traditions of Trentino.

Why attend

• The night walk with torches, suitable for families and all ages
• The "Abbraccio di Luce" nativity scenes along the route
• The bonfire with mulled wine and sweets in Villa Rendena
• The free shuttle service for the return
• The authentic atmosphere of an alpine New Year in Val Rendena