Festival International de Cor des Alpes de Nendaz (International Alphorn Festival of Nendaz) fills Nendaz, Switzerland each late July with ringing alphorn massed ensembles, a blind-jury competition, and a festive traditional procession celebrating Swiss mountain folklore. Hear 100+ horns echo across the Alps, then wander between folk-dance shows, yodeling, and a lively traditional market. It’s a joyful tribute to an instrument once used for valley-to-valley calls—now turned into pure spectacle.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival weekend (2026): Friday–Sunday, 24–26 July 2026.
• Program 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. Program 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.