"Borgh'in Festa," Sappanico sells out: "The first performance was a success, now we'll repeat."

"This is our vision of the villages, and our thoughts, with a special tribute from the stage, go to Paolo Baggetta. We miss him; we would have loved to celebrate this success with him. But I'm sure he would have rejoiced with us in a Sappanico filled with people, enthusiasm, and color." Fabio Mecarelli, city councilor and member of the Anti-Degradation Association, was tired, emotional, but happy. And his thoughts remain with the historic president of the local committee, Baggetta, who passed away in September 2023. Alongside his battles for decorum in all the villages, "he dreamed, as we did, of magical evenings like Saturday's."

The reference is to the first edition of 'Borgh'in festa' at the Sappanico municipal park, which drew, yes, thousands of people. A few numbers, elaborated by Mecarelli and the association's current president, Patrizia Veroli: 4,000 seats for dinner under the stars alone. Then, starting in the afternoon, visitors let loose to the rhythm of '80s music with the dancing of Stritti (Simone Mecozzi) and his dance troupe, followed by entertainment from DJs Ricotti, Domenella, and Filippini, accompanied by Luca Iron, and a concert at 9:30 pm by the popular band Via Verdi. Those in attendance were treated to light tubes, creating a suggestive choreography, and at midnight, 300 sweet pastries. "We're still thrilled," Mecarelli continues, voiceless. "The public response was simply extraordinary, so much so that people even came from outside the city and province. I sincerely thank all those who supported us—volunteers, institutions, and partners who made themselves available. This event can serve as a catalyst for further initiatives." Councilor for the Villages, Daniele Berardinelli, also hints at this on social media: "A great success that we will replicate in the other villages." These villages represent the identity of Ancona.

James Giampieri