The most magical time of the year is upon us.
Despite the frenzy that Christmas brings, the atmosphere of surprise, magic, sharing and expectation, have the upper hand.
If you want to experience all these emotions in advance, then you must plan a weekend in Alagna!
Cradled between vertical walls and formed by many small hamlets, Alagna looks like a small crib.
Tradition has it that in Alagna the Santa Claus arrives on December 6, for St. Nicholas (for our Alemannic ancestors it was Sankt Niklos).
The Saint's arrival was eagerly awaited by the little Walser children; the only time of the year when they received a longed-for present.
They did not live poorly since the territory provided enough for subsistence but having the gift of sweets or new scapins for the winter, brought by night by an old man with a long white beard and his faithful donkey was another story.
The preparation ritual was repeated in every home: before going to sleep in the alcove upstairs, a cup of milk and a piece of bread had to be prepared for the odd couple of wayfarers who left gifts in return.
Now the tradition is repeated: an authentic Sankt Niklos harnessed as a bishop and his faithful servant brighten the spirits of the little people of Alagna on the night of December 5-6.
This is followed by Mass in the small church in Pedemonte and the throwing of sweets (over the years they have slowly replaced mandarins, once the only delicacy).
It is the time of the first snowfalls, much expected.
Snow, it is known, for mountain people is bread and relaxes the spirits of those who invest in the area.
What kind of winter will it be?
The December 2 Santa Bibiana, snow merchant in case St. Andrew and St. Catherine were dry, nevertheless decrees the weather for the next 40 days.
Believe it or not, but it works!
During the Immaculate Conception weekend, the street comes alive with Christmas markets; an excellent opportunity to learn about and buy local products and experience the warm and fragrant atmosphere that preludes the winter vacations.
Candles that smell of orange and cinnamon, furry pillows and handmade blankets, scarves and slippers.
Christmas cookies, hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Music, dancing and sharing around the brazier.
If you, too, are a winter-loving dreamer and your thoughts take you to memories of faraway Christmases, lived amidst choice hugs and family traditions, Alagna is your place!
