Year-End Torchlight Procession

A tradition illuminating the night of December 30th since 1989

The Year-End Torchlight Procession is the most anticipated winter event in Civitella Alfedena, a tiny village in the Province of L'Aquila set within the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. Every year since 1989, on the night of December 30th, the village foregoes ordinary lighting to glow only with the warm, flickering light of torches. Born from the initiative of a group of enthusiasts, the event has become a symbol of identity for the entire community and a magnet for thousands of visitors who head to the mountains during the week between Christmas and New Year.

Two fiery serpents along the Val di Rose

In the late afternoon of December 30th, those wishing to participate can register at the gazebo set up in Piazza Plebiscito. At 7:30 PM, the torchbearers gather in hiking gear and, accompanied by guides, begin to ascend the ridge of the Val di Rose trail that overlooks the village. Participants divide into two routes: a higher, more technical one reserved for experienced hikers, and a lower one suitable for everyone, including children. The two lines of torches draw two long fiery serpents in the night that descend, meet, and rejoin in the historic center before reaching the large bonfire.

The village that lights up with torches

From 9:30 PM, the real show begins: torches placed in the windows of every house make the entire village shine, while luminous moving figures and background music accompany the event. Spectators watch the sight from the Piazzale di Santa Lucia, warmed by bonfires and the hot chocolate and mulled wine offered by the Association. The natural amphitheater of mountains surrounding Civitella Alfedena amplifies the magic of an evening that, as they say in the village, "never ceases to thrill, despite the passing years."

Nativity Scene in the Village and Christmas spirit

The Torchlight Procession is part of a broader program of festivities that animates Civitella Alfedena during the holidays, including the traditional Nativity Scene in the Village, which can be visited along the alleys of the historic center. For those unable to reach the village, the event is broadcast live on Facebook and the "Radio Parco" YouTube channel.

One of the most beautiful villages in Abruzzo

Civitella Alfedena is one of the most characteristic villages in the Upper Sangro Valley and a gateway to the National Park, famous for its stone alleys, the Apennine Wolf Wildlife Area, and the Chamois Museum. Experiencing the Torchlight Procession here means immersing yourself in an authentic experience where tradition, mountains, and a sense of community merge into one of the most evocative nights of the year in Abruzzo.