The patronal feast of Campertogno, featuring a craft market, a costumed procession, and the flavors of the Valsesia valley
In the heart of the Upper Valsesia, in the province of Vercelli, Piedmont, the village of Campertogno dedicates an entire day to its patron saint with the Feast of Saint James the Greater, historically known in the local Walser and Valsesian dialect as Féra 'd San Jaccu. It is an event that weaves together devotion, tradition, and conviviality, drawing visitors from across the entire valley to this small mountain town.
From early morning, the streets and squares of the historic center transform into a large craft market: a showcase of ancient trades, handmade goods, and typical Valsesian products, with stalls spread from the church square through the village alleys to the hamlet of Avigi. The most solemn moment is the Holy Mass in the Parish Church of Saint James, preceded by the traditional procession of women in traditional Valsesian costumes, accompanied by the local brass band—a scene that preserves the memory and identity of the community.
The day would not be complete without its gastronomic soul. In the hamlet of Avigi, at Piazza Madonna delle Grazie, 'The Square of Taste' comes to life, where stalls managed by local associations offer traditional specialties, starting with the famous miacce, the thin, savory wafers that are a symbol of Valsesian cuisine. The festival is also an opportunity to discover the remarkable monumental complex of Saint James, with its church and sacred art treasures that bear witness to the village's long history.
Organized by the Pro Loco of Campertogno in collaboration with the Municipality and local associations, the Feast of Saint James is much more than just a fair: it is the day when Campertogno tells its own story, through its stone houses, frescoes, and its deep connection to the culture of the Valsesia valley. A perfect stop for those looking to experience the authenticity of the Piedmontese mountains.
The 2026 edition of the Feast of Saint James the Greater confirms the most anticipated summer event in Campertogno, in the province of Vercelli. The day, according to established tradition, revolves around the craft and local Valsesian produce market set up from the morning in the village streets, the Solemn Holy Mass in the Parish Church preceded by the procession of women in traditional costumes, and 'The Square of Taste' in Piazza Madonna delle Grazie, in the Avigi hamlet.
The detailed hourly program for the 2026 edition, including side events and food stands managed by local associations, will be announced by the Pro Loco of Campertogno and the Municipality in the weeks preceding the festival.
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be published by the organizers closer to the event. Based on previous editions, the day includes:
Historic center of Campertogno (VC), Upper Valsesia, Piedmont. The Mass takes place in the Parish Church of Saint James the Greater (Corso Umberto I); the market occupies the village streets up to the hamlet of Avigi, where 'The Square of Taste' is held in Piazza Madonna delle Grazie.
Campertogno can be reached by car along the SS299 of the Valsesia, heading towards Alagna Valsesia. In previous editions, a free shuttle service was provided from the parking areas (Villa hamlet) to the village center.
The festival takes place in July, coinciding with the feast day of Saint James the Greater (July 25th).
Admission and participation in the festival are free.
Municipality of Campertogno: +39 0163 77122. Pro Loco of Campertogno: [email protected].
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Centro storico e Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giacomo Maggiore
Corso Umberto I, 1, 13023 Campertogno