Traditional St. John's Bonfires
The bonfires of the most magical night of summer
About St. John's Bonfires
The Bonfires of St. John's Night
The Traditional St. John's Bonfires are an ancient rite celebrated in Cogne, in the province of Aosta, in the hamlets of Épinel and Gimillan. At sunset, coinciding with the feast of St. John the Baptist, large bonfires are lit, dotting the mountainsides with light, on a night steeped in symbolism related to the summer solstice.
A Centuries-Old Tradition
The custom has roots in distant times: historically, the villages of the valley competed to keep the fire burning the longest, in a challenge that united communities and identity. Today, the St. John's bonfires survive as an expression of the value of memory and community spirit, passed down through generations.
An Evening of Celebration Around the Fire
Around the flames, people gather to share food, wine, and local drinks, while the evening is enlivened by the music of Cogne accordionists, both young and old. It is one of the most authentic occasions to experience the spirit of the Aosta Valley, far from major events and immersed in the intimate atmosphere of the mountain hamlets.
St. John's Bonfires — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Traditional St. John's Bonfires is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, in the hamlets of Épinel and Gimillan in Cogne. An evening around traditional bonfires, featuring music, flavors, and mountain community spirit.
Programme St. John's Bonfires 2026
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
- Around 9:30 PM — Lighting of the bonfires in the hamlets of Épinel and Gimillan at sunset;
- Around the flames: local food, wine, and drinks;
- Live music with Cogne accordionists, young and old.
The evening continues in a festive atmosphere in the hamlets. Details to be confirmed by the Pro Loco of Cogne closer to the event.
Highlights St. John's Bonfires 2026
Prices St. John's Bonfires 2026
Practical information — St. John's Bonfires
How to get there
Épinel and Gimillan are hamlets of Cogne, reachable by car or shuttle bus from the center. Cogne is about 27 km from Aosta along the SR47.
Time
The bonfires are lit in the evening, around 9:30 PM. Info: Consorzio Operatori Turistici Valle di Cogne, +39 0165 74835.
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Where does it take place — St. John's Bonfires
Frazioni di Épinel e Gimillan
Frazioni Épinel e Gimillan, 11012 Cogne