Rigi Schwing- und Älplerfest (Rigi Wrestling & Alpine Festival) crowns Rigi Staffel (Mount Rigi), Switzerland each July, celebrating Schwingen—Swiss alpine wrestling—in a sawdust ring at one of Europe’s highest arenas. Watch top wrestlers trade throws and respectful handshakes, then soak up alphorns, yodeling, and traditional Steinstossen (stone putting) amid sweeping lake-and-Alps views. Food tents and folk music keep the mountain-party mood going, and the champion famously takes home a Rigi cow.
DATES & TIMES
• Event day (2026): Sunday, 19 July 2026. Official site · Event listing.
• Early start: First special departures for guests and wrestlers run in the early morning; day programme begins on site in the morning (detailed timetable publishes each year). See 2026 day schedule.
• Weather plan: If postponed, a replacement date is announced (for 2026: 2 August). Calendar note.
LOCATION
• Where: Rigi Staffel — the highest‑altitude wrestling venue in Europe, with views over lakes and Alps. About the venue.
• Open in Google Maps (Rigi Staffel).
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Admission: Event admission is required at the arena. Visitor info.
• Standing “Kombi” tickets: Widely available via the Rigi Bahnen webshop, at the valley stations on the day, and at the on‑site box office (subject to capacity). Where to buy · Rigi Bahnen shop.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Getting there: Arrive via Rigi Bahnen — cogwheel trains from Vitznau & Arth‑Goldau, or cable car from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad then train to Rigi Staffel. Anreise & Fahrpläne · Rigi travel info.
• Altitude & weather: It’s an open‑air mountain arena — pack layers, sun/rain protection; programs may adjust for weather. About the festival.
• Traditions: Schwingen bouts in sawdust, Steinstossen, alphorns & yodel — classic alpine atmosphere. Learn more.