Scopello Carnival

The Scopello Carnival, the heart of Valsesia tradition

In the village of Scopello, a small gem nestled in the Valsesia valley at an altitude of about 660 meters in the Province of Vercelli, Carnival is one of the most anticipated events of the year. For nearly two weeks in February, the streets fill with masks, music, and the enticing aromas of mountain cuisine, in a celebration that blends Alpine folklore with the warm conviviality typical of Valsesia communities. The event is managed by the Pro Loco Scopello in collaboration with the Carnival Committee and local historical mask groups.

A program marked by tradition

The Carnival kicks off with the inauguration: the presentation of the masks and the handing over of the keys in the Town Hall Square, followed by the Committee's grand aperitif. From that moment, the calendar unfolds with several unmissable events that define the Scopello Carnival:

• The Paniccia — the most iconic moment: at the crack of dawn, fires are lit in the square to cook the traditional paniccia, while the Scopello and Pila Band provides the soundtrack. At noon, distribution begins, featuring sausages, boiled meats, toma cheese, bread, oranges, and biscuits.
• The Masquerade Ball — an evening of dancing at the Multi-purpose Center with a live orchestra and free entry.
• The Cena delle Ossette — the traditional dinner that closes the Carnival, featuring the raffle draw and, afterwards, the grand Ambrosian masquerade ball.

A celebration for the whole community

The Scopello Carnival is not a show to be watched from afar, but a participatory event where the entire village gets involved: families, children, masked groups, and local associations (from the Pila Carnival Committee to the masks of Scopa) work together to create a simple and authentic experience. The paniccia, distributed using vouchers purchased in advance, is the symbol of this sharing: a humble traditional dish that becomes a moment of gathering for the entire community.

Why it's worth visiting

For those visiting Valsesia, the Scopello Carnival is a chance to discover a genuine village festival, far from the major tourist circuits but rich in flavors, music, and human warmth. It is a window into the popular traditions of the Alpine Piedmont, where age-old recipes, brass bands, and masquerade balls continue to be passed down from generation to generation.