Noël au Quai, Genève (Christmas on the Dock, Geneva) is a festive holiday market set along the scenic Quai du Mont-Blanc by Lake Geneva, where twinkling lights, wooden chalets, and the snowy peaks of the Alps create a magical backdrop. Visitors can browse artisan crafts, sample seasonal delights from vin chaud to Swiss specialties, and enjoy a lively program of concerts, street performances, and family activities. With its lakeside setting and international flair, the market blends Swiss tradition with cosmopolitan charm, making it one of Geneva’s most beloved winter events.

Fête de l'Escalade is an annual festival held in Geneva, Switzerland, celebrating the city's victory over a surprise attack by the Duke of Savoy’s troops in 1602. The event commemorates the people of Geneva’s successful defense of the city, symbolized by the scaling of the city walls (hence the name "Escalade"). The festival features parades, historical reenactments, music, and the traditional "marmite" (a chocolate cauldron filled with marzipan vegetables) that represents the boiling oil used to defend the city. Locals dress in period costumes, and there are festive activities throughout the Old Town, making the Fête de l'Escalade a vibrant celebration of Geneva's history and independence.

Silvesterchlausen (New Year’s Mummers’ Festival) is a centuries-old Swiss folk tradition celebrated each year on December 31st and again on January 13th (the old Julian New Year) in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. At dawn, groups of Chläuse—men dressed in elaborate costumes as Beautifuls, Uglies, or Naturals—go from house to house singing yodels (Zäuerli) and offering New Year’s greetings. Their ornate headdresses, some depicting miniature landscapes or churches, are handmade works of art. In return, they receive refreshments and goodwill from the villagers. Blending pagan and Christian symbolism, craftsmanship, and community spirit, Silvesterchlausen is one of Switzerland’s most distinctive and enchanting winter customs.

Lauberhornrennen (Lauberhorn Ski Race) is one of the world’s most prestigious Alpine skiing events, held each January in the mountain resort of Wengen, Switzerland. First run in 1930, it is the oldest World Cup downhill race and features the longest course on the circuit—spanning over 4.4 kilometers of steep, twisting terrain beneath the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Thousands of spectators gather along the slopes and in Wengen’s car-free village to cheer on the world’s best skiers. Known for its mix of thrill, tradition, and spectacular scenery, the Lauberhorn Ski Race is a highlight of both the Swiss winter season and the international ski calendar.

World Snow Festival is a magical winter art event held each January in the alpine village of Grindelwald, Switzerland, at the foot of the Eiger North Face. Since its founding in 1983, the festival has brought together international sculptors who transform massive blocks of compacted snow into breathtaking snow and ice sculptures, displayed in the open air against the dramatic mountain backdrop. Visitors can watch the artists at work, stroll among the finished creations, and enjoy live music, local food, and a cozy village atmosphere. Blending creativity, nature, and winter wonder, the World Snow Festival celebrates the ephemeral beauty of art in snow.

Inferno-Rennen (Inferno Ski Race) is the world’s largest amateur downhill ski race, held each January in the mountain village of Mürren, Switzerland. First organized in 1928 by British ski enthusiasts, the race covers a challenging 14.9-kilometer course descending from the Schilthorn to Lauterbrunnen, testing both endurance and skill. Thousands of participants from around the world compete each year, cheered on by lively crowds and set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The event also includes cross-country races, slalom competitions, and festive après-ski gatherings, blending sport, tradition, and Alpine camaraderie. The Inferno Ski Race remains a legendary highlight of Switzerland’s winter season.

Festival International de Ballons de Château-d’Oex (International Hot Air Balloon Festival) is one of the world’s most picturesque aerostatic festivals, held each January in the alpine village of Château-d’Oex, Switzerland. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, the festival brings together around 100 hot-air balloons from over 20 countries, filling the sky with a kaleidoscope of color above the Vaud Alps. Highlights include ballooning competitions, night glows, paragliding shows, and family events, all set against the stunning winter scenery. The village’s calm mountain air and ideal microclimate make it a perfect base for ballooning—a tradition dating back over 40 years. Blending adventure, artistry, and Alpine charm, the International Hot Air Balloon Festival is a truly breathtaking winter spectacle.

White Turf St. Moritz is a world-famous horse-racing event held over three Sundays each February on the frozen Lake St. Moritz, Switzerland. Since 1907, it has drawn elite jockeys, owners, and spectators for a unique blend of sport, glamour, and Alpine spectacle. Thoroughbreds compete in flat races, trotting events, and the extraordinary skijoring, where riders on skis are pulled by galloping horses across the snow. Surrounded by Engadin’s dazzling mountain scenery, visitors enjoy fine dining, champagne tents, and a festive social atmosphere. Blending tradition, luxury, and adrenaline, White Turf St. Moritz is one of Europe’s most distinctive winter sporting and social occasions.

Basler Fasnacht (Basel Carnival) is Switzerland’s largest and most famous Carnival celebration, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Held annually on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, the festival begins in darkness at 4:00 a.m. with the magical Morgenstreich, when the city lights are extinguished and illuminated lanterns parade through the streets to the sound of piccolos and drums. For three days, Basel transforms into a whirlwind of masked cliques, satirical floats, marching bands, and confetti-covered streets, all infused with sharp political humor and artistic flair. Blending tradition, music, and irreverent wit, the Basel Fasnacht is a captivating celebration of creativity and local pride—often called “the three most beautiful days of the year.”

Engadin Skimarathon is Switzerland’s largest cross-country skiing event and one of the world’s premier mass-participation ski races, held each March in the Engadin Valley. Since 1969, thousands of skiers from over 60 nations have taken part in the 42-kilometer course from Maloja to S-chanf, gliding across frozen lakes, snowy forests, and picturesque alpine villages. The event also includes shorter races and a women’s marathon, welcoming participants of all levels. With its mix of competition, camaraderie, and breathtaking scenery, the Engadin Ski Marathon captures the spirit of endurance and elegance that defines winter sports in the Swiss Alps.

Sechseläuten is an annual spring festival held in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the arrival of spring. The festival features a lively mix of traditional events, including parades, live music, folk dances, and local food and drink. Carnival rides, games, and attractions are set up for all ages, creating a festive atmosphere in the heart of Zurich. A key highlight of the festival is the dramatic burning of a snowman, known as Böögg, which symbolizes the end of winter and the welcoming of spring.

Festival Artisti di Strada (Street Artists Festival) is a joyful open-air celebration of street art and performance, held each July in the lakeside town of Ascona, Switzerland. For three days, the picturesque streets and piazzas along Lake Maggiore fill with jugglers, acrobats, musicians, magicians, and clowns from around the world. The town becomes a living stage, where art, laughter, and spontaneity meet the charm of the Swiss-Italian Riviera. Blending Mediterranean flair, creativity, and community spirit, the Street Artists Festival in Ascona is a highlight of Ticino’s summer, enchanting visitors of all ages with its playful energy and seaside atmosphere.

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.

Buskers Bern is an annual street performance festival held in Bern, Switzerland. The festival features a diverse array of performers, including musicians, acrobats, magicians, dancers, and other street artists, who showcase their talents in the city’s public spaces. With performances happening throughout the historic city center, the festival creates a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Buskers Bern is a celebration of creativity, providing free, family-friendly entertainment while also fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. It is a unique way to experience Bern's artistic and dynamic spirit.