The Alpine Descent: A Festival of Thanks from the Heart of Switzerland

When summer comes to an end, the mountain villages of Switzerland turn into a festive scene. Cows adorned with flowers, ribbons, and giant bells begin their descent from the high Alpine pastures to the valleys. This traditional procession is not just a livestock migration; it’s a celebration of a successful summer’s hard work. If you want to experience this unique atmosphere, here are some of the best Alpine Descent (Alpabzug) events for 2025!

The Alpine Descent: Why and How It Happens

This tradition is a fundamental part of Swiss agricultural culture. In the summer, as the weather gets warmer, farmers take their animals up to the cool and lush Alpine pastures. The animals graze on the mountains all summer, and the farmers produce traditional goods like cheese. When autumn arrives and the weather begins to cool, it’s time for the animals to return to their winter shelters in the valleys.

The Alpine Descent is a celebration of this journey home. It’s a way of giving thanks to nature and the animals for a fruitful and prosperous summer. Farmers wear their most beautiful traditional clothes, the animals are meticulously decorated, and everyone descends together. This procession turns into a full-fledged festival with local music, dances, and markets selling fresh cheese, bread, and other traditional foods.

Switzerland’s Most Famous and Popular Alpine Descent Festivals

These events stand out because of their size and the authentic festive atmosphere they offer.

1. Charmey (Canton of Fribourg)

• Location: Takes place in the Gruyère region of the Fribourg Alps.
• Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
• What to expect: This is one of Switzerland’s best-known Alpine Descent festivals. As the animals return from the Alps and pass through the village, you can explore a huge market selling everything from local cheeses to handicrafts, and enjoy live music and folk dance performances.

2. Urnäsch (Canton of Appenzell)

• Location: At the foot of the Appenzell Alps.
• Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
• What happened: Considered one of the most authentic and traditional Alpine Descents, this event created a wonderful festive atmosphere with the unique costumes and music of the Appenzell region. A market full of handmade cheeses and other local products was also available to visitors.

3. Kerns (Canton of Obwalden)

• Location: In the Sarneraa Valley.
• Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
• What to expect: This is one of the largest and most emotional events in the region. The people of Kerns welcome their returning animals and herdsmen with great enthusiasm. The village turns into a lively fair with local cheese tastings, folk music shows, and of course, a magnificent procession of decorated cows.

4. Entlebuch (Canton of Lucerne)

• Location: In the heart of the Emmental Alps, in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
• What to expect: The Alpine Descent festivals in this region are also quite famous. The event takes place in the midst of nature, offering a more natural and calm atmosphere, making it a great option for nature lovers.