Where and when are the festivals in Switzerland 2025? Current list of Swiss festivals

Switzerland is a country where tradition and modernity intertwine in amazing harmony. Here you can enjoy both world-class cultural events and cozy local festivals. In 2025, Switzerland will continue to delight its residents and tourists with a variety of events covering music, art, gastronomy and sports. In this article, we will tell you about the most interesting festivals that are planned for 2025.

1. Montreux Jazz Festival

When and where?

• Date: June - July 2025
• Place: Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva

Description:

The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world. Despite its name, the event has long gone beyond the jazz genre and now includes performances by stars of pop, rock, electronic music and other genres.

What to expect in 2025?

• Performances by world stars such as Diana Krall, John Legend and newcomers to the world of jazz.
• Unique evening concerts on an open-air stage overlooking the lake.
• Master classes and jam sessions for music lovers.

Why is it worth visiting?

This festival is not only an opportunity to hear great music, but also to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Swiss romance, enjoying the picturesque views of Lake Geneva.

2. Locarno Film Festival

When and where?

• Date: August 2025
• Place: The city of Locarno, in the south of Switzerland

Description:

The Locarno Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious film events in Europe. It is known for its openness to experimental films and its support for young directors.

What to expect in 2025?

• Independent film and documentary premieres.
• Open-air screenings in the famous Piazza Grande, where up to 8,000 spectators can gather.
• Programs for children and young people, including film-making workshops.

Why visit?

The festival offers a unique opportunity to get acquainted with innovative cinema and enjoy the atmosphere of the Italian part of Switzerland.

3. Festival "Zürcher Theater Spektakel"

When and where?

• Date: August - September 2025
• Place: Zurich, on the banks of the Limmat river

Description:

"Zürcher Theater Spektakel" is an international theater and performance festival that attracts artists from all over the world. The event combines theatre, dance, circus and interactive installations.

What to expect in 2025?

• Innovative productions from avant-garde directors.
• Special programs for families, including children's performances.
• Street performances and performances on the waterfront.

Why visit?

This festival is ideal for those who appreciate contemporary art and want to see something truly unique.

4. Neuchâtel Cheese and Wine Festival (Fête des Vendanges de Neuchâtel)

When and where?

• Date: September 2025
• Place: Neuchâtel, on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel

Description:

This festival is dedicated to the two main symbols of Switzerland - cheese and wine. It is held annually and attracts foodies from all over the world.

What to expect in 2025?

• Tastings of local wines and cheeses, including the famous Swiss cheese "Raclette".
• Parades, dancing and live music.
• Craft fairs with products from local artisans.

Why visit?

If you love gastronomic adventures, this festival is the perfect choice to get acquainted with Swiss cuisine and traditions.

5. Geneva Light Festival (Lumières de Genève)

When and where?

• Date: December 2025
• Place: Geneva

Description:

The Festival of Lights is a winter wonderland that transforms the city into a fairytale place with light installations and projections.

What to expect in 2025?

• Huge light installations in parks and on the streets of the city.
• Interactive installations that can be "brought to life" using smartphones.
• Themed routes for walks with the whole family.

Why is it worth visiting?

This festival creates a unique festive atmosphere and is ideal for winter walks.

6. International Comics Festival Lucerne (Fumetto Comic Festival)

When and where?

• Date: April 2025
• Place: Lucerne

Description:

Fumetto is the largest comics festival in Switzerland, bringing together artists, authors and fans of the genre.

What to expect in 2025?

• Exhibitions of works by famous comics artists.
• Workshops on creating comics for beginners.
• Meetings with authors and discussions of new trends in the industry.

Why is it worth visiting?

This event will appeal to both comics lovers and those interested in modern art.

7. Lucerne Festival

When and where?

• Date: August - September 2025
• Place: Lucerne

Description:

The Lucerne Festival is one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in the world. It brings together the best musicians and conductors from all over the world.

What to expect in 2025?

• Concerts of symphony orchestras and chamber music.
• Performances by legendary performers such as Anne-Sophie Mutter and Lang Lang.
• Special projects dedicated to contemporary classical music.

Why is it worth visiting?

This festival is a real treat for classical music lovers.

8. Château-d'Oex International Balloon Festival

When and where?

• Date: January - February 2025
• Place: Château-d'Oex, Vaud region

Description:

This festival is one of the most colorful winter events in Switzerland. Dozens of hot air balloons of different shapes and sizes take to the skies.

What to expect in 2025?

• Hot air balloon launches throughout the week.
• Night shows with illuminated balloons.
• Special events for children, including meetings with pilots.

Why visit?

The festival offers a unique spectacle and the opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon.

Conclusion

Switzerland in 2025 will delight you with its variety of festivals that cover all possible interests: from music and film to gastronomy and art. Each event is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's culture and enjoy its beauty. Whether it's picturesque mountains, lakes or cozy cities, each festival adds a special atmosphere that makes the trip unforgettable.

Main events:

• Music festivals: Montreux Jazz Festival and Lucerne Festival.
• Cinema and theater: Locarno Film Festival and Zürcher Theater Spektakel.
• Gastronomy: Fête des Vendanges de Neuchâtel.
• Winter events: Lumières de Genève and Château-d'Oex International Balloon Festival.

Choose the event that you like and plan your trip in advance so as not to miss the opportunity to be part of these amazing festivities!