Popular customs and festivals in Switzerland
Select your Region:
Ajoie (Neuchâtel / Jura / Bernese Jura)
St. Martin, as well as being a religious festival, corresponds with the end of the annual cycle of working the fields.
Appenzell (Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein)
The medieval center of Appenzell is the venue of the annual Swiss popular music festival.
Bellinzona (Ticino)
A colorful Ticino market is held every Saturday, offering authentic Ticinese culinary specialities by local restaurants takes place every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Brünig (Bernese Oberland)
The popular Brünigschwinget, a very Swiss form of wrestling, traditionally takes place on the last Sunday in July. More than 600 spectators watch the prowess of the 130 participants.
Engelberg (Central Switzerland)
The return to the valley from Alpine pastures (From mid-September to mid-October), animal show at the Ochsenmatt (mid-October) and jolly "Älplerchilbi" (festival) with Alpine farmers' fair.
Ernen (Valais)
In Ernen the future is happening - the art of chamber music is preserved for the future in a very congenial manner.
Evolène (Valais)
Every year (as far back as anyone can remember) several young people "open" the carnival on the 6th January, the "Fête des Rois" ("Feast of the Kings").
Frutigen (Bernese Oberland)
A trail with a message providing insights into how to cultivate the mountain valley so that it provides a basis for life. There are also details of historical backgrounds, the spiritual legacy of the inhabitants of the valley and the valley's typical architecture and crafts.
Goms (Valais)
The procession of cattle being driven down from Alpe Grimsel alongside the young Rhone to Obergesteln is an experience in a class of its own. For once the speed on the road is determined by cows and all along the way spectators look on from the side of the road.
Grimentz (Valais)
On the 3rd Sunday in June the cattle climb up to higher mountain pastures, known as Avoin. The "Inalpe" festival is always a day of celebration.
