Serravalle Sesia Carnival

The Carnival that unites Serravalle Sesia

In the heart of the Valsesia region, in the Province of Vercelli, the Serravalle Sesia Carnival is much more than a simple masquerade: it is the moment when the entire town, including its hamlets, gathers around its traditions. Organized by the Carnival Committee with the invaluable support of the Pro Loco and the patronage of the Municipality and the Province of Vercelli, the event unfolds over several weeks, from mid-January until the final bonfire in mid-February.

The Mugiun and the new Mugiuna

The absolute star is the Mugiun, the historic male mask of Serravalle, which reached its eighth incarnation (Mugiun VIII) in 2026. During the official opening, the Mugiun symbolically receives the keys to the town from the Mayor, taking the reins of the community for the duration of the festivities. The big news of this edition is the introduction of the Mugiuna, the female counterpart who officially joins the Mugiun, a sign of a Carnival that knows how to renew itself while remaining faithful to its roots.

Flavors and traditions of Valsesia

Popular gastronomy is an integral part of the festival. It begins with the distribution of tripe in Piazza Tirondello, a symbolic dish of winter conviviality, and continues with the Gir dal Pais, the food and wine tour through the districts, now in its twenty-second edition. However, the most anticipated moment remains the fagiolata (bean feast), an ancient bean-based preparation distributed to the population and also celebrated with the 'Gran Cenone del Fagiolo' (Grand Bean Dinner). There is no shortage of events dedicated to the little ones, with the children's carnival parade, inflatable games, and entertainment in Piazza Libertà.

The burning of the Mugiun, the grand finale

Closing the Carnival is the evocative burning of the Mugiun ceremony in Piazza Libertà: the reading of the testament, the fire consuming the effigy, and, following that, a fireworks display that lights up the Valsesia sky. An ancient rite, common to many Piedmontese carnivals, which symbolizes the end of winter and the hope for a prosperous new year. Faith and folklore also intertwine with the 'Santa Messa del Voto' (Votive Mass) at the Sanctuary of Sant'Euseo.

The Serravalle Sesia Carnival is a free, participatory event, perfect for discovering the genuine soul of a village in northern Piedmont and experiencing one of the most cherished traditions of Valsesia up close.