The Dèzarpa of Valtournenche

It is at the end of September that the cows return from their "vacation" at altitude, where they have spent the hot summer months. The return from the pasture is celebrated in many municipalities in the Aosta Valley, one of them being Valtournenche and its hamlet of Maen. The cows, particularly the spotted red breed, are carefully brushed and adorned with flowers and colorful ribbons and then paraded through the village streets accompanied by their owners; it is an ancient ritual that pays homage to the animal. Participating in the celebration are: farmers, mountain guides, ski instructors, villagers in traditional dress the Alpini and various associations that cheer those present, with music, folklore and good food.