Occhieppo Inferiore Carnival Bean Festival

A celebration steeped in tradition

The Carnival Bean Festival is one of the most cherished events on the calendar in Occhieppo Inferiore, a small town in the Elvo Valley within the province of Biella, Piedmont. Organized by the local Pro Loco, active since 1993, the event renews a Carnival ritual widespread throughout the Biella area: the preparation and distribution of fagiolata, a hearty dish of beans slow-cooked with pork rinds, cured meats, and vegetables, perfect for warming up the coldest winter days.

Fagiolata, the signature dish of the Biellese Carnival

In the Biella region, fagiolata is more than just a recipe; it is a moment of community. Cooking the beans, often started the night before in large cauldrons, is already part of the festivities. On the day of the event, the fagiolata is distributed to all who wish to partake and accompanies a convivial lunch open to everyone. Surrounding the food are the joys of Carnival, colorful masks, and the village spirit that has animated this part of the Elvo Valley for generations.

The community lunch

The heart of the day is the community lunch held at the Salone Polivalente on Via Caralli, the usual venue for Pro Loco events. The menu follows the Piedmontese gastronomic tradition, pairing the fagiolata with appetizers, boiled meats, side dishes, and the typical Carnival pastry, bugie. It is an opportunity for residents and visitors from neighboring towns to gather in an informal, family-friendly atmosphere.

Occhieppo Inferiore and the Elvo Valley

Nestled at the foot of the Biellese Prealps, Occhieppo Inferiore is part of the Elvo Valley, a land of rural traditions, sanctuaries, and ancient textile crafts. The Carnival Bean Festival is part of the Pro Loco's rich calendar of initiatives, which also includes the Melamangio & Melabevo market exhibition in autumn, the chestnut festival, and numerous cultural events. Participating in the fagiolata means getting a close-up look at the convivial soul of a Piedmontese village.