The Fanfare Bersaglieri Nino Tramonti Mario Crosta of Lonate Pozzolo represented Italy at the Fête des Concrits, which took place on January 27-28, 2024, in Villafranche-sur-Soane. On Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 4:00 PM, the Fanfare participated in the musical parade with two other brass bands. At 6:00 PM, a reception for the city authorities was held at the Town Hall. On Sunday, the 28th, a parade of all the groups took place through the main streets of the town.

The Fête des Concrits - A Widespread Tradition in France

The Fête des Concrits is a French tradition that historically primarily concerns gentlemen. It fosters a sense of solidarity and camaraderie among conscripts. In fact, it is often said that once you're enlisted, you're a conscript forever. This practice was established after the creation of the district in France in 1798, as well as the professionalization of the armed forces.

In the last century, the Hôtel de Ville organized a lottery to select conscripts (young men aged 20) so they could participate in the festival before leaving to serve their country, often for several years. In 1850, two young men from Calado showed up dressed in black suits and bowler hats, starting a tradition that continues today.

In 2020, the Villefranche Conscripts' Festival was inscribed on France's intangible cultural heritage!