Pettinengo Carnival

The local Carnival in Pettinengo

The Pettinengo Carnival is the local festival of Pettinengo, a small village in the Province of Biella, in northern Piedmont. Far from the region's larger historical carnivals, this is a genuine village event, organized by and for the local community: a day when the streets and the square fill with masks, colors, and joy, involving children, families, and seniors in a shared festive atmosphere.

The masked parade

The heart of the day is the masked parade, which sets off from the San Rocco area and winds through the village accompanied by music. Both adults and children march in colorful, creative costumes, bringing a festive procession to life that concludes in the town center. At the end of the day, the best costume awards take place, a highly anticipated moment that celebrates the participants' creativity.

The fagiolata, a Biellese tradition

As in many towns in the Biella area, the Pettinengo Carnival is tied to the fagiolata, the typical Piedmontese Carnival dish known in the local dialect as faseuj grass. This rich bean stew is slow-cooked with sausage, pork rinds, lard, and pork, prepared in large cauldrons and distributed for free or for a voluntary donation to the public. Served in the square in the early afternoon, the fagiolata is one of the most cherished symbols of the festival, an expression of conviviality and hearty, traditional peasant cuisine that is perfect for the winter season.

Games and entertainment in Piazza della Vittoria

After the parade, Piazza della Vittoria becomes the hub of the festivities with games, animation, and entertainment for everyone. It is the most anticipated moment for the little ones, featuring foam, confetti, streamers, and activities designed for families. The atmosphere remains lively until late afternoon, when the day concludes with the costume awards.

A festival for the whole community

The Pettinengo Carnival does not focus on large numbers but on authenticity: it is the festival through which a small Biellese town renews the Carnival ritual every year, keeping alive a tradition that weaves together masks, good food, and village spirit. For those visiting the area, it is also an opportunity to discover the hospitality and popular customs of the Piedmontese hinterland.