Switzerland is well known for its breathtaking scenery, delectable cuisine, memorable celebrations, and lively marketplaces, all of which contribute to its distinct allure. The following is a list of the best Swiss food festivals and events that any food enthusiast should not miss.
FOOD ZURICH celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025 with a significant culinary extravaganza. It comprises Switzerland's largest table along Lake Zurich, showcasing meals from all 12 city districts. With more than 100 events, including workshops, chocolate tours, and herb foraging, it is the third-largest culinary festival in Europe. Over 11 days, FOOD ZURICH celebrates taste, sustainability, and the love of food by bringing people together through various culinary experiences, such as fine dining and the Slow Food market.
Once a modest delicacy, chestnuts have returned to the local cuisine of Switzerland's Ticino area. They are a regional speciality, whether roasted in gnocchi or as marrons glacés. Ascona honours this culinary gem every October with a Chestnut Festival featuring over 2,000 kg of roasted chestnuts and chestnut-flavoured delicacies, along with exciting music and celebrations.
3. Cheese Festival in Bern, Cheese Festival in Gruyères
Although Switzerland has many cheese festivals, these two are really worth mentioning. Bern's Cheese Festival is a must-see occasion, particularly at the end of the season. In the ancient Waisenhausplatz, local cheesemakers showcase their expertly made cheeses, allowing guests to sample various flavours while taking in folkloric performances. A cow milking competition is one of the festival's entertaining events, and attendees can relax with beverages at the festival bar afterwards.
Every spring, the quaint medieval village of Gruyères hosts a free event that is a must-see: the Cheese Market. Foodies may sample traditional Swiss cheeses and discover new flavours at the bustling market on Rue du Bourg. It is a multisensory celebration of Swiss culinary heritage, where visitors may interact with local cheese makers and artisans.
The region's grape harvest begins with the Neuchâtel Grape Harvest Festival, which takes place annually on the final weekend of September. Highlights include a Guggenmusik night procession on Friday, a children's parade on Saturday, and a vibrant flower march on Sunday, complete with brass bands and dazzling costumes. The city center is turned into a car-free festival, and the three-day event celebrates regional winemaking traditions in a vibrant setting.
Aarau holds its annual Carrot Market along Graben Street on the first Wednesday of November. With about 140 sellers, the town becomes Switzerland's carrot hub for the day from 8 AM. Like Bern's onion market, this event has become a significant cultural and economic highlight of the town's strong sense of community.
6. Onion Market (Zibelemärit) in Bern
The Zibelemärit, a traditional folk festival focused on onions and garlic, takes place in Bern every year on the fourth Monday of November. About 50 tons of these crops are on display at the event, along with vibrant market stalls and braids of garlic and onions. Visitors may savour a range of onion-based foods, such as soups and tarts, and warm up with mulled wine at 6 a.m. Locals frequently start perusing the stalls early to take advantage of the celebratory mood and haggle with merchants.
The Strawberry Festival draws considerable public attention each year. Visitors swarm the Piazza Grande to enjoy the mouth watering strawberries prepared in various ways and to see the numerous events and stage shows.
The "10th Risotto Championships for chefs" is being held in Locarno’s Grande Piazza. Gourmets can sample the risotto prepared by local and guest chefs and enter a lucky draw with fantastic prizes. There is also entertainment and music, such as the "10th Risotto Gran Prix" at Piazza Grande, Locarno. There are also associations, carnival groups, etc.
Swiss street food vendors serve freshly prepared cuisine from mobile kitchens and are essential to the nation's gastronomic tradition. Premium gin, wine, beer, and cocktails are served in themed bars, and lively street entertainers and musicians enhance the ambiance. With many seats and well-manicured grass, Maienzugplatz offers cuisine from 30 nations. All ages enjoy this exciting event.
Bio Marché - the Swiss Organic Festival
With more than 200 exhibitors offering a wide variety of organic goods, an organic garden, and a farmers' alley, the Bio Marché is Switzerland's biggest organic fair. In addition to the market, several events and activities are held, including a petting zoo, juggling demonstrations, and live music performances. Organic farmers, producers, and processors can display their goods and encourage sustainable living during the fair.
Each of these celebrations captures the essence of Swiss culture, customs, and spirit, providing a singular chance to engage fully with the nation's rich past. They invite tourists to discover Switzerland's rich traditions, participate in its colourful festivals, and take in its stunning scenery in a way that will never be forgotten. Enjoy your time while AlpTransfer takes care of your stress-free and luxurious transfers.
