Schella Marz
The Cimbra 'call of March' in Contrada Lucchetta, with bonfires, songs, and readings
About Schella Marz
The Cimbra "call of March"
"Schella Marz" literally means "ring March": it is an ancient tradition rooted in the Cimbra culture of the Alto Vicentino, which, with bells, cowbells, and beaten lids, chases away winter and symbolically calls spring. In Valdagno, in the province of Vicenza, it is ProValdagno that preserves this popular rite, bringing it back every year to the evocative Contrada Lucchetta.
The bonfire and the rite of passage
The heart of the evening is the large bonfire, a symbolic moment that marks the transition from the cold season to the new one. Families and curious onlookers gather around the fire, in an atmosphere that evokes the sounds and stories of the Cimbra culture of the Valdagno hamlets.
Readings, songs, and characters of the past
The event is enriched by themed readings curated by Valeria Sandri and popular songs by the Coro A.N.A. di Novale, which recreate an authentic and engaging atmosphere, with stories dedicated to the typical characters of the hamlet's past. There are also roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sweets for children, to conclude the evening convivially, which is above all a moment of cohesion for the community.
Schella Marz — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of Schella Marz takes place on Saturday, February 28, in Contrada Lucchetta in Valdagno, organized by ProValdagno. The evening features the Cimbra rite of the "call of March," with bells, cowbells, and lids to chase away winter, and the large propitiatory bonfire as a symbolic moment of the season change.
The program is enhanced by themed readings curated by Valeria Sandri and popular songs by the Coro A.N.A. of Novale, while offerings of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sweets accompany the public in an evening dedicated to tradition and conviviality.
Programme Schella Marz 2026
Saturday, February 28, 2026
- Meeting at the hospital car park and procession towards Contrada Lucchetta
- Lighting of the large bonfire, a symbolic moment of the transition from winter to spring
- Themed readings by Valeria Sandri
- Popular songs by the Coro A.N.A. di Novale and stories of typical characters from the past
- Cimbra rite with bells, cowbells, and lids
- Roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sweets for children; final convivial moment
Highlights Schella Marz 2026
Prices Schella Marz 2026
Practical information — Schella Marz
How to get there
Contrada Lucchetta is located on the heights of Valdagno (VI); the meeting point is the hospital car park, from which the hamlet can be reached with a short walk. Valdagno can be reached by car from the SP246 of the Agno Valley and by the Vicenza-Valdagno railway.
When
The 2026 edition is scheduled for Saturday, February 28. The evening takes place outdoors, around the bonfire.
Notes
Free admission. Roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sweets are available. Warm clothing is recommended, as it is an outdoor evening event.
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Where does it take place — Schella Marz
Contrada Lucchetta
Contrada Lucchetta, 36078 Valdagno