On Saturday evening, December 28, the Sacro Monte di Varese came alive with the glow of approximately one thousand torches as the annual Torchlight Procession unfolded. Starting from the First Chapel, the event saw around one thousand participants, many of whom utilized shuttle buses from the nearby hippodrome parking area, with others arriving by car.
The enchanting atmosphere was enhanced by starry skies, the gathering of families and friends, and the joyful spirit of the season. Organizers initially provided 600 torches, which were quickly snatched up, leading to estimates of total participation as high as one thousand people throughout the evening. This exemplified the local enthusiasm for the procession, which has become synonymous with the end of the year celebrations.
The procession not only brightened the night but also held deep significance. Participants carried their torches along the sacred path, embodying a strong attachment to traditions and community values. The event serves as both a farewell to the past year and hopeful anticipation of the year to come, symbolizing renewal and reflection.
Participants shared experiences filled with moments of joy and camaraderie, united under the twinkling stars atop the Sacred Mountain. The procession's iconic lighting reached its peak at the summit, where attendees were greeted with vin brulè prepared by local alpine groups and festive music performed by the Comerio Philharmonic Association. This gathering at the top exemplified the warmth of community spirit during what can often be the coldest time of the year.
Reflecting on the evening, many commented on the sense of togetherness it fosters, recalling shared laughter and stories as they traversed the stunning paths leading to the Sacred Mountain. The sound of traditional music, the laughter of families, and the shared warmth of the torches created feelings of nostalgia and hope for the future.
"For us, it’s not just about the event itself, but about coming together as one community to celebrate the beauty of our traditions and look forward to the new year," said one participant. Such sentiments resonate deeply among those who attend year after year, creating lasting memories.
With each procession, the Sacro Monte di Varese continues to be not just a physical location but also a symbol of unity and resilience, bridging the old year with the new. The event often commemorates the cultural heritage of Varese, making it significant to locals and visitors alike.
Photos of participants basked in torchlight began to circulate on social media, capturing the magic of the night and the spirit of togetherness, and many expressed admiration for the event’s capacity to bring joy during winter's chill. Local residents cherish these moments, vowing to return each December as they fondly associate the procession with the fervent hope each new year brings.
The torchlight procession at the Sacro Monte di Varese is more than just another holiday event; it’s rooted deeply in the community’s culture and shared history. It emphasizes the importance of coming together, celebrating old traditions, and creating new memories—all under the guidelines of respect and communal spirit.
Varese’s distinctive blend of culture, history, and community celebration makes the annual Torchlight Procession at Sacro Monte not only anticipated but also cherished as both residents and visitors gather to welcome the new year together.
