Peveragno Conscripts Festival

A local tradition spanning generations

The Peveragno Conscripts Festival is one of the most beloved events in the calendar of the Municipality of Peveragno, in the heart of the Cuneo Province, Piedmont. It is a classic conscripts' gathering, a deeply rooted tradition in the valleys and towns of the Cuneo area: every year, the "leve" (birth cohorts) are celebrated, and the entire community takes to the streets to honor them together.

The festival is traditionally held on Easter Monday and effectively kicks off the Peveragno event season. It is organized by the Pro Loco of Peveragno, with the support of the municipal administration, involving hundreds of people every year, including those being celebrated, their families, and curious visitors.

The parade through the town streets

The heart of the day is the grand parade that departs in the morning from Piazza Pietro Toselli. Leading the procession are the Scarlet Stars Majorettes and the marching band, followed by the youngest children accompanied by their parents, then teenagers, young adults, and progressively older cohorts, all the way up to the nonagenarian conscripts. Each cohort marches with its own distinctive symbols—scarves, hats, pins, bags—that make it easy to identify the birth year being celebrated at a glance.

Mass, remembrance, and civic ceremony

The parade includes the laying of a floral wreath at the cemetery in memory of deceased conscripts, followed by Mass celebrated in the parish church of Santa Maria. A particularly moving moment is the presentation of the flag to the new eighteen-year-olds by the Mayor, a symbolic gesture marking the entry of the youngest into adult society. This is followed by the essential group photos for each class.

Lunch and celebrations

After the official proceedings, the festival continues with a convivial lunch at the "A la Sousta" multi-purpose center and in local restaurants, in a joyful atmosphere that unites multiple generations around the same table. As per tradition, the Mayor and the municipal administration also visit the oldest residents in Peveragno's care facilities, honoring them with a bouquet of flowers.

Why it's worth attending

• One of the most authentic conscript traditions in the Cuneo area
• A cheerful and colorful parade in the center of Peveragno
• An opportunity to experience the community spirit of a Piedmontese town
• Free admission, ideal for a family Easter Monday outing