As the sun rose over Biella on Friday, May 9, 2025, a wave of excitement swept through the city, marking the beginning of the 96th National Alpini Gathering. The event kicked off with a flag-raising ceremony at 9 AM, signaling the start of what promises to be a vibrant three-day celebration of Alpine culture and camaraderie.
According to local resident Nicolò, who was returning from Milan, the A4 highway was transformed into a colorful procession of vehicles adorned with the Italian flag and Alpini stickers. "It seemed like a secular pilgrimage, a slow and imposing river of trucks, buses, and cars heading towards Biella," Nicolò described. He noted that after passing Novara, the traffic thickened, filled with a festive atmosphere. "There was a different air, almost joyful. Buses packed with Alpini, cars with black feathers on dashboards, and flags waving from windows created a colorful and organized caravan," he added.
Not just military vehicles were on display; Nicolò reported seeing campers, vintage Fiat Pandas decorated in theme, and even motorcycles with Alpine hats attached. The vehicles hailed from all corners of Italy, including Piedmont, Veneto, Friuli, Campania, and Puglia, all converging on Biella.
As the festivities began, the city was already buzzing with anticipation. Lino Marchiori, president of the "Monte Pasubio" section of Vicenza, led a delegation of around 12,000 to 15,000 Alpini and supporters from his province. "The city is already alive and full of people, and I must say, I hear Venetian spoken everywhere," Marchiori remarked with a smile.
In a message to the Alpini, Luca Zaia, the President of the Veneto Region, expressed his hopes for a successful gathering. He emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "The national gathering of the ANA remains one of the largest and most heartfelt popular festivals in our country. It transcends its nature as a veterans' reunion, evolving into a contagious expression of community values, solidarity, work, and respect that have always characterized our people." Zaia also mentioned that this would be his last Alpini Gathering as president, making it a particularly poignant occasion for him.
Zaia highlighted the Alpini's role in civil protection and community service, stating, "For us Venetians, the Alpini are not just a large association; they are the backbone of social aggregation in many towns, volunteers ready to assist where organizing services is more challenging. They embody one of the most beautiful and solid expressions of our land, and if the Alpini didn’t exist, we would need to invent them." He extended his best wishes to the Penne Nere, or Black Feathers, as they prepared for the festivities.
On the same day, the Cittadella degli Alpini was inaugurated—a 20,000 square meter exhibition space set up by the Alpine troops of the Army for the gathering. The opening ceremony featured General Michele Risi, commander of the Alpine troops, along with Biella's mayor, Marzio Olivero, and the president of the National Alpine Association, Sebastiano Favero. The Cittadella hosts 25 stands showcasing the history, technology, and new equipment of various Alpini regiments.
Visitors can explore the military history represented by the National Historical Museum of the Alpini from Trento and engage with interactive displays, including military drones and biathlon demonstrations. An info point for recruitment promotions was also established, along with opportunities to experience military vehicles firsthand.
As the gathering unfolded, an estimated 50,000 Alpini and their supporters filled the streets of Biella, creating an atmosphere rich with emotion, music, and celebration. The event officially commenced with the flag-raising ceremony, followed by a series of official moments, parades, and impromptu concerts that continued late into the night.
Looking ahead to Saturday, May 10, the schedule is packed with events. At 10 AM, national president Sebastiano Favero will meet with ANA sections abroad and foreign military personnel at the Città Studi auditorium. A thrilling paratrooper demonstration is set for 1 PM at the La Marmora - Vittorio Pozzo stadium, with a repeat performance at 6 PM in Lessona.
Later in the afternoon, at 4:30 PM, a Holy Mass will be held in the Duomo, followed by a parade featuring the ANA Labaro and the Biella section's banner. Authorities, including Mayor Olivero and regional presidents, will deliver greetings at the library in Piazza Curiel. The day will culminate with itinerant concerts featuring Alpine choirs and bands starting at 9 PM.
As the Alpini gather in Biella, they not only celebrate their rich heritage but also reinforce the values of community and solidarity that have defined their legacy for generations. With the spirit of the Alpini alive in the streets, this year's gathering promises to be a memorable event for all involved.
