As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn arrives, Switzerland honors the Désalpe — a tradition of cows returning from alpine pastures that has been cherished since around 3,000 BC.
What is the Désalpe?
The désalpe in French (Alpabzug in Swiss-German) is also known as the “return from the alpine pastures.” It is a traditional event that typically takes place between September and October. After grazing all summer in the lush mountain meadows, cows are decorated with colorful flowers and bells before making their way down to the villages. This parade of cattle is an ancient tradition that highlights the connection between the Swiss people and their land. These events are filled with lively music, traditional crafts, and markets featuring local products such as alpine cheese, cured meats, and handmade pastries. Children will be captivated by the beautifully decorated animals, and adults will enjoy the warm, community-focused atmosphere.
2025 Désalpe Schedule
Check out some of the cutest spots in Swiss Romandy to experience the désalpe events:
Sembrancher (Valais): September 20, 2025
More authentic and less crowded celebration. Enjoy the traditional cattle descent up close and savor local specialties in a lively village setting. More details here.
Jaun (Fribourg): September 22, 2025
Sheep fair and désalpe begins at 9 a.m. with the arrival of sheep and goats, alongside folk music and over 50 market stalls. Throughout the day, visitors can browse local crafts, meet shepherds, and soak in the festive alpine atmosphere. In the evening, restaurants open their doors for hearty meals and live entertainment by folk groups. Full program details here.
Blonay (Vaud): September 27, 2025
The Désalpe begins at 11:00 a.m. at the Grand-Pré and continues until 6:00 p.m., when the youth of Blonay-St-Légier take over with music, keeping the celebration going until 2:00 a.m. Find out more here.
Charmey (Fribourg): September 27, 2025
The only place in Switzerland where you can fully experience the “Rindyà”—one of the most famous désalpe events in the region. “Rindyà,” the local term for désalpe, means “returning the livestock to their owners.” Starting from 9 a.m., enjoy folk music, stroll through market stands filled with artisanal products, and don’t forget your dancing shoes to celebrate until sunrise! Learn more about the event here.
L’Etivaz (Vaud): September 27, 2025
This désalpe is a must-visit for cheese lovers! L’Etivaz, a charming village known for its alpine cheese, comes alive during the festival. Attendees can enjoy cheese-making demonstrations, live music, and traditional festivities that celebrate the return of the cows from the alpine pastures. Celebrations begin at 8:00 a.m., and in the evening, enjoy dinner in the heated canteen, more live music, and a youth bar. Admission is CHF 8 for adults, free for under-16s, including parking and shuttle. Payments at bars and stands are accepted via Twint. Event website link.
Lignières (Neuchâtel) September 27, 2025
From 10:00 a.m., the craft market opens. The traditional descent begins as around sixty heifers return from the high mountain pastures. There’s plenty of entertainment for children, live music, a choir, and later, a lively brass band and folk procession featuring the yodelers from Lignières. Full program here.
St-Cergue (Vaud): September 27, 2025
One of the largest désalpe events in the region, St-Cergue’s celebration begins at 8:30 a.m. and continues throughout the day. I attended last year and fell in love with this unique Swiss tradition! The effort put into decorating the cows—crowned and covered in flowers—was truly impressive. The event has a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with stands offering local products, live music, and the sounds of alpine jingle bells that add to the Swiss countryside vibe. For more information about this year’s program, including details on the cottages the herds come from and their famous cheeses, visit the event website.
Albeuve (Fribourg): October 4, 2025
The first herds will make their way through the village at 9 a.m., accompanied by the traditional armaillis—Gruyère cattle herders who are part cowboys, part cheesemakers. Come and experience Swiss heritage as the armaillis wear their classic ‘bredzon’ and their ladies the elegant ‘dzaquillon,’ bringing centuries-old alpine traditions to life. Practical info here.
Saignelégier (Jura): October 4, 2025
Around a dozen groups and wagons take part in the unique and only cattle drive in the canton of Jura! Come along and enjoy music, markets, and local traditions in this lively celebration of the Désalpe.
Semsales (Fribourg): October 4, 2025
The festivities will start with a complimentary breakfast at 9 a.m., followed by a traditional market and craft demonstrations. The parade of over 700 cows begins at 11 a.m. Enjoy food stalls offering chalet soup, ham, and other local specialties, along with live music and a disco bar. Full program details here.
Les Diablerets (Vaud): October 9 – 11, 2026
Held every two years at the Maison des Congrès des Diablerets, the Salon des Alpages welcomes both professionals and the public. Enjoy a lively market with regional products, local artisans, and top alpine livestock, all set to music and folk performances. Each edition focuses on a central theme tied to alpine life and traditions. More details here
The Verdict
Each location has its own charm, making it worth exploring different events if you can. It’s a simple way to celebrate Swiss traditions, enjoy local flavors, and feel connected to nature and the community!
