International Gathering of the Chimney Sweep

Annual historical re-enactment, generally held on the first weekend in September, to commemorate a craft that provided work opportunities for some inhabitants of the Vigezzo Valley, who due to the valley's poor condition from the 1500s until the early 20th century, were forced to migrate to Milan, France and Flanders in order to work, thus beginning their careers as chimney sweeps. A slice of history not only from Italy, there are in fact a thousand chimney sweeps from all over Europe and America who gather in Santa Maria Maggiore for the re-enactment. The highlight is the traditional final parade on Sunday, but there are also convivial moments with music and local food.