The annual masked carnival celebrations held in Upper Piedmont are a journey through history, folklore and authentic flavours.
A project from the Chamber of Commerce Monte Rosa Laghi Alto Piemonte
Undisputed protagonists of the annual carnival in Upper Piedmont, the towns of Borgosesia, Varallo and Santhià offer immersive experiences that tell the story of this land. The tourist enhancement project of north-eastern Piedmont, Vivi Alto Piemonte - Un Mosaico di Meraviglie is promoted by the Chamber of Commerce Monte Rosa Laghi Alto Piemonte.
Carnival traditions in Upper Piedmont towns
In Borgosesia, the famous Mercu Scurot market that is held on the first day of Lent, is an event rooted in local history and mixes folklore, music and fun with parades of allegorical floats, characteristic masks and dance evenings involving the entire community. Varallo’s historical carnival combines the cultural richness of the Valsesia valley with a festive and engaging atmosphere. Colourful processions, dances and historical re-enactments transform the streets of Varallo into an open-air stage. Then there is the carnival of Santhià which is the oldest in Piedmont, with origins dating back to 1338. Among the most characteristic moments are the presentation of the masks and the famous “fagiolata” bean soup, the largest in Italy, with the distribution of some 20,000 portions. 
Varallo Carnival Arch. ph credits. ATL Terre Alto Piemonte
Traditional sweets and biscuits
Continuing our journey to discover the carnival traditions of Upper Piedmont, we encounter other celebrations that reveal precious fragments of local culture and identity. For example in Vercelli, the city's symbolic character is Bicciolano, while in Novara we find King Biscottino, a figure inspired by the local confectionery tradition and the famous Biscotto di Novara biscuits. Also fascinating are the 19th-century masks of the Domodossola carnival, while the “old man” Gipin brings a smile to the streets of the city. Each of these various masks is a window on the history of the communities of Upper Piedmont, where culture and fun combine in events that conquer year in year out.
Novara Carnival Arch. ph credits. ATL Terre Alto Piemonte
A celebration of flavours and traditions
Upper Piedmont’s carnival celebrations are a true feast of authentic flavours with various types of carnival sweets, and no carnival is complete without a good glass of wine, especially sweet wine, to accompany the flavours of the region. Alto Piemonte’s carnival celebrations are a true celebration of the culture, flavours and traditions of this territory. With fascinating masks, irresistible sweets and excellent wines, every moment becomes an opportunity to experience a land rich in history and personality.
