Notturna Serravallese - 30th Isabella Marinoni Memorial

The Notturna Serravallese, a running tradition in the Valsesia valley

The Notturna Serravallese is one of the most beloved sporting events on the calendar in Serravalle Sesia, a town in the province of Vercelli overlooking the Sesia River, in the heart of the Piedmontese Valsesia. It is a non-competitive fun run held during the early summer evenings, when the cooler air invites locals to run and walk through the town streets. The event is dedicated to the memory of Isabella Marinoni and, in 2026, reached its 30th Memorial, a milestone that speaks to the longevity of an event deeply rooted in the community.

A course for everyone

The route, which is entirely flat and starts from Piazza Libertà, is designed to involve seasoned runners, casual walkers, families, and enthusiasts alike. Because the race is non-competitive, the goal isn't the clock, but participation: people run or walk together, at night, through the illuminated streets of Serravalle Sesia's town center. There is also plenty of space for the little ones, with the Kids Run that precedes or follows the main event, turning it into a celebration for the whole family.

Groups, awards, and team spirit

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Notturna Serravallese is the group participation. Clubs, associations, and groups of friends compete to see who can register the most participants, as the largest groups receive recognition and prize vouchers. The evening also features raffles and special awards, fostering a climate of healthy competition and friendship that is the true heart of the event.

The risotto feast and town celebration

True to the tradition of Piedmontese festivals, the Notturna Serravallese concludes with a convivial gathering: at the end of the run, the local Pro Loco and the Alpini Group of Serravalle Sesia offer all participants a risottata (risotto feast), a signature dish of the Vercelli region, land of rice paddies. It is the moment when sport gives way to celebration, conversation, and the enjoyment of local flavors.

Part of the Sports Festival

In recent years, the Notturna Serravallese has become part of the broader Sports Festival weekend, organized by the Municipality and the Pro Loco, which brings together numerous local sports groups from the town and the valley for demonstrations, free trials, and activities for adults and children. The run is the highlight of the Saturday evening, ahead of the Serravall'E-Bike ride on Sunday, in a two-day event that celebrates sport and outdoor life in the Valsesia territory.