Night of the Candles

The Night of the Candles: Winter Magic in the Maira Valley

In the heart of winter, as the Christmas festivities draw to a close, the village of Celle di Macra transforms into a living nativity scene of light. The Night of the Candles is one of the most poetic events in the Upper Maira Valley, in the province of Cuneo, nestled in the heart of the Occitan Piedmont. On the eve of Epiphany, the town's ancient hamlets are illuminated solely by the flickering glow of hundreds of candles, guiding visitors through historic stone corners as if walking through an animated storybook.

A walk through illuminated hamlets

The meeting point is in the Chiesa hamlet, where a shuttle service takes participants to the Grangia hamlet. From there, an evocative two-kilometer walk begins—suitable for everyone—leading to the Castellaro hamlet. The path, lit only by candles, winds through timeless corners of the alpine village: along the way, you will encounter tales of medicine women, folk memories, and the mysteries of the valley, handed down through Occitan culture and ancient local legends of masche and sarván.

Flavors, warmth, and the magic of the Befana

The walk is punctuated by delicious stops featuring hot drinks and panettone, perfect for braving the mountain chill. During the journey, the Befana makes an appearance, ready to hand out a small gift to all the children present. Upon arrival in Castellaro, the enchanted atmosphere of the illuminated village welcomes visitors for the convivial part of the evening.

The closing aperitif

The evening concludes at 8:30 PM with an aperitif at the Cantunal in Castellaro, a moment of celebration and sharing that brings together residents and guests. Alternatively, dinner is available by reservation at the La Cusino restaurant. Both the aperitif and the Befana gifts require advance booking.

A local tradition

The Night of the Candles is organized by the Pro Loco Seles of Celle di Macra, with the support of the Municipality and the Ecomuseum of the Upper Maira Valley. More than just an event, it is a community ritual rooted in the ancient alpine and Occitan traditions of the Maira Valley, highlighting the small hamlets and their heritage of stories, music, and legends. A precious opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Piedmontese mountains in its most evocative form.