Chalandamarz (First of March Festival) is a traditional spring festival celebrated in the Romansh-speaking valleys of Switzerland, marking the end of winter and the arrival of a new season. On March 1st, children and young people parade through villages dressed in colorful costumes, ringing large cowbells and cracking whips to drive away evil spirits and the cold. Songs in the Romansh language, along with playful skits and community gatherings, give the festival a strong cultural identity. Rooted in ancient Alpine customs, Chalandamarz blends folklore, music, and youthful energy to welcome the rebirth of nature.
DATES & TIMES
• Core day: 1 March 2026 — the traditional date of Chalandamarz across Engadine villages. Official Engadin page • Samedan listing (1 Mar 2026).
• Local variations: some places start the eve before (e.g., midnight whip‑cracking in Zuoz); programmes and hours vary by village. Zuoz timetable example.
• Exact 2026 village timetables not yet published—check local pages nearer the date. Pontresina events • Engadin overview.
LOCATION
• Region: Upper & Lower Engadine (Graubünden), with processions in many villages.
• Example hubs: Samedan — Schoolhouse Square (morning parade) — Open in Google Maps • Zuoz — Plaz/Plantahaus (midnight “Vout”) — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free public tradition: parades take place in public streets and squares; no general tickets. Official overview.
• Donations welcome: schoolchildren often collect for a communal feast/school trip, per local custom. National traditions register.
GOOD TO KNOW
• What you’ll see: children in bright blue smocks with red caps, ringing large cowbells and cracking whips; songs and a village ball in some places. Chalandamarz in detail.
• Early start: some villages begin before dawn; streets can be closed to traffic during parades—arrive early and dress warm.
• Village‑specific: customs and participation rules differ by village; check the local municipality/tourism page for the day’s route and times. Events hub.
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