Saint Lawrence Patronal Feast ("Festa a Villa")

The patronal feast of Villa del Bosco

The Saint Lawrence Patronal Feast, known to all as "Festa a Villa", is the main summer event in Villa del Bosco, a small town in the province of Biella, in Piedmont. Every year, around the feast day of Saint Lawrence (August 10th), the village gathers around its most cherished tradition: a community celebration that brings the square to life for two consecutive weekends, from Friday to Sunday.

A tradition of the Biella area

The festival is organized by the Villa del Bosco Sports Association with the patronage of the Municipality and has become a summer classic in the hilly area between Baraggia and Bramaterra. It is one of those village festivals that capture the identity of the Biella territory: volunteers, families, and residents from neighboring towns gather to share long outdoor tables, good food, and evenings in good company. Despite its modest size, it retains the authentic spirit of traditional Piedmontese festivals.

Cuisine and specialties

The heart of the festival is the evening food stand set up in the village square, which offers a traditional menu every night alongside special dishes. Past editions have featured specialties such as paella, pork shanks, mussels, mixed fried fish, grilled meat, seafood spaghetti, as well as the famous Saint Lawrence crespelle (crepes) and tripe. A bar serving aperitifs and cocktails is also available.

Music and entertainment

Each evening is accompanied by live music and DJ sets: recent editions have featured local DJs and tribute bands (covering artists like Vasco Rossi, 883, and Ligabue) that kept the square lively until late at night. For families, there are attractions for children and, in some years, even a charming panoramic tourist train.

An event to experience

The "Festa a Villa" is the ideal opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Biella area, far from the usual tourist circuits, and to experience the hospitality of a small Piedmontese community. It is a free, open-air event where great food and music provide the backdrop to one of the village's most beloved traditions.