Saint Valentine and Lo Camentràn Carnival in Courmayeur

Saint Valentine, the return of light

In Courmayeur (Aosta Province), February 14th is not just a celebration for lovers: Saint Valentine is the winter patron saint of the resort, and his feast day symbolically coincides with the moment the sun returns to illuminate the village for an extra hour, heralding the gradual end of the long Alpine winter. It's a day the community celebrates with live music, heart-themed finger food, hot chocolate, and wine tastings from Cave Mont Blanc.

Lo Camentràn, the Aosta Valley carnival

A few days later, Courmayeur dives into Lo Camentràn, the traditional Aosta Valley carnival. It's a festival that blends ancient colours, sounds, and flavours with a contemporary, ironic, and often irreverent tone. The protagonists are the traditional masked characters: the Badochys de Courmayeur and Lé Beuffons, historical figures of local folklore who parade through the town centre.

The traditions of Lo Camentràn

Among the most characteristic moments is the distribution of minestrone (the traditional "soup") offered to the public, the parades of allegorical floats, and entertainment for all ages. The Carnival on Skates, with masked ice skating, face painting, and balloons, adds a festive touch for families.

A festival of identity

Saint Valentine and Lo Camentràn together represent one of the most authentic moments of winter in Courmayeur and the Aosta Valley: not the glitz of the ski slopes, but the popular tradition of a mountain community that, through masks and ancient rites, bids farewell to winter and awaits the return of the warmer season. The events are organised with the support of the Municipality of Courmayeur.