St. Nicholas and the Strozea dei Bandoni

On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, the whole village of Fai celebrates its patron saint with the strozea. The streets ring with the sound of bandoni—tin cans dragged and banged together by the children to call the Saint.

In the evening, St. Nicholas arrives riding his donkey, loaded with gifts: mandarins, bagigi (peanuts to crack open), and candies. It’s an old Alpine tradition to share with the locals of Fai, along with a good cup of mulled wine.

SCHEDULE

7:15 PM Meet in Piazza San Rocco for a moment of reflection with Don Massimiliano. Afterward, the strozea sets off through the village.

8:30 PM St. Nicholas arrives in the square with a small gift for the kids. And to stay warm… mulled wine, tea, and hot chocolate for everyone!

Special Thanks
The dedicated local volunteers, the Fire Department, Pro Loco "I Scorlenti," Fai Oratory, Consorzio Fai Vacanze, and the Municipality of Fai della Paganella.