The International Alphorn Festival of Nendaz is an annual event held in Nendaz, Switzerland, celebrating the tradition of the Swiss Alphorn. The festival gathers Alphorn players from around the world for a series of performances, competitions, and collaborative concerts. Set against the stunning Alpine backdrop of Nendaz, the event features traditional Swiss music and the distinctive sounds of the Alphorn. Visitors can enjoy concerts, parades, and exhibitions, as well as participate in workshops and cultural activities. The festival highlights the cultural significance of the Alphorn and offers a unique celebration of Swiss heritage in a beautiful mountain setting.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival weekend (2026): Friday–Sunday, 24–26 July 2026.
• Programme rhythm: Friday concerts & market in Nendaz Station; Saturday official competition (blind jury) & evening parade; Sunday massed ensemble at Tracouet (2,200 m) with prize‑giving. Exact 2026 timetable publishes on the festival site. Programme hub · Festival overview.
LOCATION
• Where: Haute‑Nendaz (Valais, Switzerland) — events around Nendaz Station (village centre) and up at Tracouet for the Sunday highlight.
• Open in Google Maps (Tracouet gondola).
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Most activities are free in the village. To reach Sunday’s Tracouet stage you’ll need a gondola ticket (or a valid summer lift pass). Lift prices · Lift times.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Blind‑jury competition: Saturday’s official contest uses a blind audition (jury in a closed tent).
• Massed ensemble: On Sunday, over 100–150 alphorn players perform together at Tracouet — the festival’s signature moment. Highlight.
• Getting there: Train to Sion, then PostBus line 362 to Haute‑Nendaz, Télécabine. How to get to Nendaz · PostBus info.
• Altitude & weather: Tracouet is at 2,200 m — bring layers, sun protection and water; schedules can shift with weather.
Keen to hear 150 alphorns ring out over the Alps? We’ll sort lift tickets, flag the best vantage points, time your PostBus/transfer, and book a local dinner afterwards. Hire Tripologiste.