A Stacada Festival

Starting in the late 19th century, the A Stacada took place on the last day of Carnival week; since 1960, it has been celebrated on the third Sunday in July. It is a historical reenactment in costume of the popular uprising against the vagaries of the powerful, featuring a whole series of recurring characters. The program: In the morning, 6:00 a.m.: The residents are roused by fifes and drums. Rituals performed by the Drum Major, the Cantinière, and the Espailleur. 6:30 a.m.: The rebels gather at the church square, facing the local militia. 9:00 a.m.: Arrival of the Lord, the Couret, and the escort of Turkish horsemen. 9:30 a.m.: After hearing the complaints of the residents of Breil, the Lord orders the Militia and the Turks to go and seize the Bayle and his accomplices, who are feasting at La Coupéra. The Bayle and the local notables flee upon the arrival of this force. After an initial skirmish, they are captured and put on trial. Dance of the Espailleur. The procession returns to the village. 10:30 a.m.: The Bayle and his accomplices flee toward the Gate of Genoa and are pursued by the Militiamen and the Turks. Fighting ensues, and the fugitives are captured. They are bound (Stacada) and brought before the Judges and the Lord. 11:00 a.m.: Judgments and sentences. 11:30 a.m.: Demolition of the barricades erected in the old streets by the supporters of the condemned. 12:30 p.m.: End of the morning tradition. Afternoon, 3:45 p.m.: Parade of volunteer actors making their way to the lakeside tent to perform the reconciliation dances of A STACADA In the evening, 10:00 p.m.: Grand country dance.