The Night of the King of Biss

A festival in the belly of the mountain

At an altitude of 716 meters, perched on a plateau along the scenic Colma road between Varallo and Lake Orta, the village of Civiasco (Province of Vercelli, Piedmont) hosts one of the most surprising festivals in Valsesia every summer. The Night of the King of Biss takes its name from the "Re di Biss" (King of Snakes), a creature from local folklore that gives the festival its mysterious and fairytale-like identity.

Born from the vision of Vercelli-born musician and singer-songwriter Carlotta Sillano, known as Carlot-ta, who serves as artistic director, the festival has grown into an event that draws visitors from far beyond the borders of Valsesia. For a few days, the small village of Civiasco becomes what the local press has dubbed the "capital of singer-songwriter music."

Music, stories, and nature

The festival is defined by the interplay of three dimensions: music (singer-songwriter, experimental, early, and contemporary music), storytelling (theatre, readings, meetings with authors and poets), and the nature of the woods surrounding the village. Events are spread across the historic center, among the squares and houses, and at Parco La Valle, featuring concerts, performances, site-specific installations, creative workshops, and walks.

Over the years, the village has welcomed prominent artists and guests from the Italian and international scene, ranging from singer-songwriters to visual artists, all within an intimate and cozy atmosphere that is the true hallmark of the event.

A three-act edition

The 2026 edition, dedicated to the theme "el ventre de la montagna" (the mountain as a hollow of earth and a space for imagination), is divided into three appointments spread throughout the year: Leggiadrissima Eterna Primavera in May, the Night of the King of Biss proper in August, and Colma d'Autunno in October. A calendar that follows the mountain seasons, guiding the visitor on a poetic journey through spring, summer, and autumn.

Why it's worth the trip

• A village-scale festival, away from the crowds and immersed in the nature of Valsesia.
• High-quality programming featuring singer-songwriters, sound experimenters, theatre, and visual arts.
• Free admission to all events.
• The opportunity to discover Civiasco, Varallo, and Upper Piedmont, amidst alpine panoramas and local traditions.

The Night of the King of Biss is organized by Pro Loco Civiasco under the artistic direction of Carlotta Sillano.