Patronal Feast of Saint Lawrence and La Badoche in Pré-Saint-Didier

The Feast of the Patron Saint Lawrence

The Patronal Feast of Saint Lawrence is the most cherished event of the summer in Pré-Saint-Didier, a comune in the Valdigne region at the foot of Mont Blanc. Saint Lawrence, the patron saint of the village, is celebrated on August 10th, but the festivities are spread over several days, bringing the entire community together between the sacred and the profane, tradition and conviviality. The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Pré-Saint-Didier.

La Badoche, a Rite from Long Ago

The heart of the festival is La Badoche, an ancient custom whose origins may date back to initiation rites of the earliest Alpine ethnic communities, perhaps Celtic. The protagonists are a group of unmarried young men and women, dressed in traditional costumes. The first "badocher" leads the procession carrying a plate adorned with flowers and ribbons, with a cake or an apple to collect offerings; a companion holds the traditional halberd, a staff crowned with flowers and decorated with multicolored ribbons, a symbol of power. The "giro della Badoche" (Badoche tour) crosses the hamlets of the village, accompanied by aperitifs and festive moments.

Procession, Mass, and Aosta Valley Tradition

The patron saint's day includes a procession through the village streets and a solemn mass in the Church of Saint Lawrence, followed by traditional dances in the square and awards ceremonies. Typical card games – scopa and belote – are not forgotten, along with activities for children. In the evening, dinners featuring traditional Aosta Valley dishes, such as game ravioli and stewed beef with Nebbiolo wine, precede the dances that liven up the festival until late. An authentic opportunity to experience the spirit of a small mountain village and one of its most deeply rooted traditions.