Torrazzo Carnival

The Torrazzo Carnival, a village festival on the Serra

In Torrazzo, a tiny municipality of just under 200 inhabitants nestled on the Serra d'Ivrea among birch forests in the province of Biella and the heart of the Elvo Valley, the Carnival is much more than a simple celebration: it is one of the most appreciated events by the population, capable of drawing families, young people, and residents of all ages to the square. Far from the large masked parades of the cities, here the Carnival preserves its most authentic dimension, made of conviviality, tradition, and shared flavors.

Two days of tradition and conviviality

The festival takes place over a weekend and revolves around two key moments. Saturday evening is dedicated to the community dinner, hosted in the rooms of the Bocciodromo della Serra: an opportunity to gather at the table, strengthen the bonds of the village, and kick off the festivities. Sunday at noon is the most anticipated moment, that of the fagiolata: the traditional distribution of "fat beans" directly in the square, a humble and hearty dish that has always accompanied the Carnivals of Piedmont and which in Torrazzo attracts a large and loyal audience.

The fagiolata, the heart of the festival

The fagiolata is the common thread of the Torrazzo Carnival and represents its popular soul. Prepared and distributed with the care of volunteers, it is a ritual that combines taste and sociality, a symbol of a community Carnival where what counts is not the spectacle but the pleasure of being together. When the weather is kind, as often happens on these late winter days, the square comes alive and the distribution of beans becomes a true open-air party.

An event by Pro Loco Torrazzo

The event is organized by the Pro Loco Torrazzo, active since 1965 in promoting the area and enlivening village life, in collaboration with the parish. The Carnival and the fagiolata are part of a calendar of events that the Pro Loco offers throughout the year, from the patronal feast in August with fireworks to the autumn chestnut festival, up to the Christmas lunch for the elderly. A commitment that keeps the traditions of this corner of the Biella area alive.