The Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima (Mid-Lent Parade) is set to take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, in the heart of Bergamo, promising to be a vibrant celebration that attracts crowds from all over. This beloved event, steeped in tradition, will feature a series of festivities that kick off a day earlier, on Saturday, March 29, 2025, with the "Parata della gioia" (Parade of Joy) starting at 15:30 from piazza Santo Spirito. This parade will showcase various folk groups as they march towards piazza Matteotti, culminating in a performance on the stage in front of the town hall.
As the sun sets on Saturday, the excitement continues with a concert featuring the group "Funk degli orsi + Joo" at 20:00 under Palazzo Frizzoni. This lively performance will set the stage for one of the parade's most anticipated traditions, the "rogo della vecchia" (burning of the old woman), which will address themes of social indifference, particularly towards the younger generations. This symbolic act will take place after the concert, providing a thought-provoking moment amidst the festivities.
On Sunday, the main event will commence at 15:00, with parade participants gathering in the station area before setting off along viale Papa Giovanni XXIII. However, due to ongoing roadworks on via Broseta, the parade route has been adjusted this year. After passing through piazza Pontida, the parade will continue to largo Cinque Vie, then via Moroni, via Palma il Vecchio, and will conclude at via San Lazzaro.
As always, the parade will be a spectacle of color and creativity, featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. The event is expected to draw large crowds, and the atmosphere will be electric as families and friends come together to celebrate this cherished local tradition.
Following the parade, the festivities will wrap up with an awards ceremony at 18:00 in piazza Matteotti, where the best floats and groups will be recognized for their creativity and effort. The event is not just a display of artistic talent but also a celebration of community spirit.
However, the Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima will also come with significant logistical considerations. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators, extensive road closures and parking restrictions will be in place throughout the day on Sunday, March 30, 2025. These restrictions will start early in the morning, with roads such as via Bono, viale Papa Giovanni XXIII, and piazza Matteotti being closed to traffic from 7:00 until 19:00. Additionally, residents within the closed perimeter will be allowed access to their homes with assistance from traffic control personnel.
From 11:00 to 19:00, further restrictions will apply on roads like via Zambonate and via San Lazzaro, with parking bans and narrowed lanes to facilitate the smooth flow of the parade. Furthermore, access roads leading to the parade route will be closed from 13:30 until the event concludes, allowing only limited access for residents, emergency vehicles, and taxis.
As the Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima approaches, excitement is building among the local community. This event not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Bergamo but also fosters a sense of unity and joy among its residents. With the preparations in full swing, all eyes will be on the parade as it promises to deliver yet another unforgettable experience.
Meanwhile, in a different sporting arena, the Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Pattinaggio Rieti is gearing up for its first outing of the season at the Campionato Regionale su Strada (Regional Road Skating Championship) in Ladispoli, scheduled for March 29-30, 2025. The event, organized by the "Debby Roller Team," will take place at Piazza del Mercato on via Firenze, where athletes from various categories will compete.
The races will kick off at 9:00 on Saturday, with the youngest competitors, the "Cuccioli" (under 7 years), leading the charge. Following them will be the "Giovanissimi" and "Esordienti" categories, among others, including the Masters. This event not only marks the beginning of the competitive season for the team but also serves as a platform for new talent to shine.
Among the newcomers making their debut in the "Giovanissimi" category are Isabel Clara Piccirilli and Viola Vicentini, the latter being the sister of the experienced Edoardo Vicentini, who competes in the "Ragazzi" category. Under the guidance of coach Sebastien Benvenuti, the team is optimistic about their performance, emphasizing that the day will be about more than just results; it will be a celebration of heart, passion, and maturity.
The A.S.D. Pattinaggio Rieti expresses gratitude to the organizers, families, and friends who support their athletes, believing that this event will be a significant step forward in their growth, both personally and athletically. As the weekend unfolds, the excitement for both the Sfilata di Mezza Quaresima and the Campionato Regionale su Strada is palpable, showcasing the vibrant sporting and cultural life of the region.
