Alassio

Alassio hosts SaldinBanco on 18 Aug, with shops, kids’ fun, yoga, music, road closures; event postponed to 25 Aug if rain.

During the Sant’Ambrogio celebrations, the prestigious Alassino d’oro was awarded, symbolised by a gold medal inspired by the Genoese Republic’s “Premium Virtutis.” This year, it honoured Professor Alberto Beniscelli for his cultural contributions and, posthumously, Simone Rossi for his community dedication. The ceremony, held at the Ancient Collegiate Church of Sant’Ambrogio, included a pontifical Mass and marked the start of the Ambrosian Year, celebrating the 1650th anniversary of Saint Ambrose’s consecration.

The Luca Ferrari Port of Alassio is transitioning towards renewable energy to embrace a sustainable future. Recognised with the Blue Flag from Fee for 19 years, the port collaborates with the Municipal Administration of Alassio and the Board of Marina di Alassio, under Rinaldo Agostini and general manager Marino Agnese, to utilise solar energy. A new dock will feature a parking cover equipped with photovoltaic panels, both protecting vehicles and generating clean energy, near the fishermen’s quay.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has designated the Gardens of Villa della Pergola in Alassio as a Partner Garden, recognising its botanical value. Saved from real estate development by Silvia Arnaud Ricci and her husband, the villa celebrates 18 years of preservation. Under Paolo Pejrone’s guidance, the gardens showcase Mediterranean and exotic flora. Award-winning, they draw tourists as a green destination. Special tours and museum access run until January 2025.

The Alassio Municipal Giunta has approved the Evaluation Committee’s decision to award the Alassino d’Oro 2024 to Professor Alberto Beniscelli for his cultural contributions and literary achievements. The ceremony, on 7 December at the Parish Hall of Sant’Ambrogio, follows a Pontifical Mass led by Monsignor Guglielmo Borghetti. Simone Rossi, former Tourism and Sports Assessore, will receive a posthumous award. Festivities for Sant’Ambrogio include a Gospel Choir concert at 8:45 PM.

Students in Alassio are transforming into changemakers through an environmental education project, “Alassio in Blu,” focused on Ocean Literacy. From December 2nd to 5th, secondary schools offer lessons, supported by Marina di Alassio and CNAM. With sensory workshops and beach activities, the initiative fosters a connection to the sea. Participants share their insights with the community, highlighting the importance of marine conservation and sustainable tourism. Local leaders emphasize the project’s role in educating future generations.

Alassio comes alive with the Alassio Christmas Town, transforming into a bustling Christmas village from December 7 to January 6. The event features dazzling light shows, parades, an ice skating rink, artisanal markets, and children’s entertainment. Highlights include the Dream Shopping contest, concerts, and shows like The Marvelous Bakery. The New Year kicks off with fireworks and continues with sporting and cultural events through the Epiphany.