Folklore Festival 2026

Experience an afternoon filled with Alpine traditions, community spirit and traditional music. The Folklore Festival brings together locals and visitors in the streets of Zermatt, on the church square and at the Obere Matten festival grounds.

Programme

🕦 11:30 – Performances in the mountains (Buffet & Bar Sunnegga and Hotel Riffelhaus 1853)

🎺 17:15 – Parade through Bahnhofstrasse to the church square

⛪ 17:30 – Joint service with flag blessing and performances

🧀 18:00 – Raclette gathering at the Obere Matten festival grounds

🎶 18:45 – Official ceremony with musical performances and the Polkafreunde Zermatt

🎟️ 19:30 – Tombola draw

Sunday is dedicated to the traditional folklore parade. Costumes, flags, music and Swiss traditions transform the streets of Zermatt into a vibrant stage. The parade is the highlight of the weekend and attracts both visitors and locals alike.

Programme

⛪ 10:00 – Yodelling mass at St. Mauritius Parish Church with the Jodelklub Tschiferli-Cheerli Obwalden

🍴 11:00–20:00 – Festival food and drinks at the Obere Matten festival grounds

🎭 13:30 – Traditional folklore parade through Zermatt

🎶 From 15:00 – Performances by participating groups at the Obere Matten festival grounds

The Folklore Festival takes place at several locations throughout Zermatt. Key venues include St. Mauritius Parish Church, the church square, Bahnhofstrasse and the Obere Matten festival grounds. All venues are within easy walking distance of each other.

Zermatt is easily accessible by public transport. The village is car-free and can be reached via Täsch by train or shuttle train. We recommend travelling by public transport whenever possible.

Turn your festival visit into a memorable stay in Zermatt. A wide range of hotels, holiday apartments and other accommodation options are available close to the festival venues and mountain attractions.

👉 Hotels & Accommodation in Zermatt

The next Folklore Festival will take place on 8 and 9 August 2026 in Zermatt.

Admission to the Folklore Festival and many programme activities in the village centre is free of charge. Additional costs may apply for food, drinks or selected activities.

Most programme activities do not require advance booking. Please check the official festival website for the latest information regarding individual events.

The Folklore Festival generally takes place even in changing weather conditions. However, programme adjustments may be necessary.

Yes. The festival is suitable for visitors of all ages. Music, traditional costumes, parades and the varied programme offer something for the whole family.

Dogs are generally welcome. During busy periods and the folklore parade, keeping dogs on a leash is recommended.

The traditional parade takes place through the centre of Zermatt. The organiser publishes the detailed route and latest information before the event.

Key venues include St. Mauritius Parish Church, the church square, Bahnhofstrasse and the Obere Matten festival grounds.