Roaschia Festival (Saint Bernard Patronal Feast)

The patronal feast of Roaschia

Roaschia Festival, also known as the Saint Bernard Patronal Feast, is the main summer event in the small municipality of Roaschia, a mountain village in the Gesso Valley in the Province of Cuneo, Piedmont. Every year, around August 20th—the day dedicated to Saint Bernard, the town's patron saint—the community gathers for several days of celebrations that intertwine religious observance with popular and social festivities.

A tradition of the Occitan Maritime Alps

Roaschia belongs to the Occitan valleys of the Cuneo area, and the festival preserves the typical traits of alpine traditions: sacred rites, music, and community spirit. The central moment remains the Solemn Mass followed by the procession through the village streets, accompanied by the marching band. Alongside the religious rite, the festival is also an opportunity to rediscover the town's Occitan roots, with Occitan dances in the square enlivening one of the evenings.

The festival program

The event takes place over several days, typically from August 19th to 22nd. Recurring highlights include:

• The opening evening organized by the Pro Loco, featuring music and social gatherings;
• The fried fish dinner, one of the most anticipated culinary events;
• The procession with the band on the patron saint's day;
• The evening dedicated to Occitan dances and a dance party with a DJ;
• Games for all ages, bocce tournaments, and card competitions;
• The fireworks display to close the festivities.

A village to discover

Visiting Roaschia during the patronal feast also means discovering an authentic corner of the Maritime Alps, on the edge of the park of the same name. Nestled in the nature of the Gesso Valley, the village offers the ideal opportunity during these days to experience the hospitality of a small mountain community and savor local cuisine and traditions. The Saint Bernard Feast is organized by the Pro Loco of Roaschia with the support of the Municipality.