Easter in Bormio? Can't miss the traditional Pasquali!
Unmissable. On Easter Sunday, the people of Bormio, young and old alike, wear traditional dress and take part in the Pasquali parade, a one-of-a-kind event. Not to be missed!
On Easter morning, we wake up early: it’s time to get ready for the Pasquali.
Our traditional costume must be flawless, following every detail of tradition. We’ve prepared it for weeks and iron it to perfection—nothing is left to chance. From newborns to the elderly, everyone has their own tailor-made outfit. And if we join the parade with our animals—horses, donkeys or little lambs—they too are washed, brushed and carefully groomed for the big celebration.
Why you can’t miss this event
Because this is the parade we prepare for all year long—perfected for over 600 years!
It’s designed to immerse you in our local traditions, to entertain you and, above all, take your breath away!
We’ll try to describe it here, but nothing compares to experiencing it live!
They are religious-themed litters, true handcrafted masterpieces.
During the winter, in Bormio’s districts (Buglio, Combo, Dossiglio, Dossorovina and Maggiore), groups of young people gather to design and build their own litter.
The Pasquali are carried on the shoulders of the young men, while women, elders and children bring flowers and other small handmade decorations. A jury ranks the creations based on several factors—from the religious message to the quality of craftsmanship and artistry—while also celebrating the cultural and historical heart of the festival.
But let’s take a step back… what happens in the days before Easter?
For weeks, the pasqualisti, young and old alike, work tirelessly to prepare their Pasquale. From the concept to the religious theme to the meticulous craftsmanship, nothing is left to chance. There’s a title to win—and to proudly hold for the entire year.
On the nights leading up to Easter, no one sleeps: there’s simply too much to do. Everything must remain a secret; no detail can be revealed.
Meanwhile, attention turns to flowers and small handmade decorations to embellish the parade, guided by the elderly experts who know every trick of the trade.
Finally, Easter morning
The gathering starts at 10:00 a.m. along the village streets. People fill every corner to watch the parade.
Meanwhile, the groups get ready: the young men shoulder the Pasquale, while the young women support them, offering sticks to rest the litter when the procession pauses.
The Pasquali—no matter their size—are heavy. You’ll see enormous ones, true works of carpentry and engineering, alongside the smaller creations of the children. They, too, must carry theirs alone, without adult help, with a pride and seriousness that is almost moving.
The parade sets off, travelling the entire Via Roma to Piazza del Kuerc: first the band, then the horses with carriages, and finally, district by district, the women, elders and children who precede the Pasquali.
You’ll see newborns in old-fashioned prams and little carts, while older children offer you handmade gifts or perhaps a piece of rye bread or local cheese.
The procession ends in the square, greeted by the chime of the Bajona, the ancient bell that once rang for special occasions.
The celebration begins—and lasts all day long.
Because the Pasquale is not only the litter itself, but also the parade and the unique atmosphere that surrounds it.
