by InTrieste
Each November, cities around the world pause to shine a light—often purple—on an issue too often relegated to hospital wards: prematurity. This year, in the northeastern Italian cities of Trieste and Gorizia, the small but mighty association Scricciolo has orchestrated a vibrant series of events to mark World Prematurity Day on November 17.
For the families of babies born prematurely, this day serves as both a lifeline and a spotlight, offering solidarity and much-needed support. “It’s the most important moment of the year for us,” said a representative of Scricciolo. “It’s when we remind the entire community how crucial it is to protect and support these children and their families.”
The Four Seasons on Stage
In Trieste, the heart of the initiatives lies at the historic Teatro Bobbio. Thanks to a long-standing collaboration with La Contrada – Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia, the theater will host The Four Seasons, a family-friendly performance. The event, scheduled for Sunday, November 17, will feature not only artful storytelling but also presentations of the association’s ongoing efforts and new projects.
Purple Sweets for a Cause
In a city known for its culinary delights, even bakeries are joining the cause. Mug Bakery will introduce a special purple cupcake, with proceeds directed to Scricciolo. Meanwhile, Il Pane Quotidiano, a popular local bakery chain, will offer a “suspended coffee” initiative from November 16–24, allowing patrons to donate coffee to the organization.
Monuments Illuminate for Prematurity Awareness
In a powerful visual statement, Trieste will illuminate some of its most iconic landmarks in purple—the symbolic color of prematurity. These include Neptune’s Fountain, the Regional Palace, and the IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, a renowned research hospital and one of Italy’s leading centers for pediatric care.
For the first time, the neighboring city of Gorizia will join the initiative, lighting up its historic castle, while the Provincial Fire Command headquarters in Pordenone will also glow purple in solidarity.
A Story Told in Photos
In Gorizia, a moving photography exhibit titled Little Scriccioli Growing Up will run from November 11–23, displaying portraits by Ilaria Tassini. The exhibit, housed in the municipal headquarters and Tassini’s photography studio, offers a tender look at the journey of premature babies as they grow into thriving children.
“Our goal is to raise awareness about the challenges and triumphs of prematurity,” Tassini said. “But we also want to inspire parents currently navigating this journey and thank the healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to these fragile newborns.”
The public will have an opportunity to meet Tassini and the team behind Scricciolo at a special presentation on November 15 at Gorizia’s Sala Dora Bassi. The event will conclude with a toast at Café La Chance, where a themed cocktail will honor the day.
More Than a Day: A Movement
For Scricciolo, World Prematurity Day is not just a single date on the calendar—it is a rallying cry. Through cupcakes and coffee, light installations, and heartfelt photographs, the organization hopes to foster a deeper understanding of the struggles and resilience of families with premature babies.
“It’s only by sharing these stories,” the association stated, “that we can build a network of love and solidarity that ensures the well-being of these children and their families.”
As Trieste and Gorizia prepare to glow purple, the question isn’t whether these cities will embrace the message of World Prematurity Day—it’s whether the rest of the world will follow suit.
