October in Switzerland is packed with exciting events that showcase the country’s rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty. From vibrant festivals and world-class marathons to charming rural markets and arts fairs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a lover of music and film, these events will offer unforgettable experiences across Switzerland’s stunning landscapes. Explore what’s happening this October and start planning your adventure!
Here are 20 important events happening in Switzerland in October 2024, with details and links for more information:
1. Zurich Film Festival
When: September 26 – October 6, 2024 One of Switzerland’s top international film festivals, showcasing films from around the globe with screenings, award ceremonies, and red carpet events. Link:Zurich Film Festival
2. Lugano Autumn Festival (Festa d’Autunno)
When: October 4-6, 2024 A festival celebrating Ticino’s culture with local food, wine, live music, and artisanal markets. Visitors can enjoy regional specialties like risotto and polenta. Link:Lugano Autumn Festival
3. Lucerne Blues Festival
When: October 12-20, 2024 This internationally renowned festival features top blues musicians performing in various venues around Lucerne. Link:Lucerne Blues Festival
4. Basel Autumn Fair (Basler Herbstmesse)
When: October 26 – November 10, 2024 Switzerland’s oldest and largest amusement fair, offering rides, food stalls, and artisan markets across Basel’s squares. Link:Basel Autumn Fair
5. Lausanne Marathon
When: October 27, 2024 A scenic marathon along Lake Geneva, offering a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K races for participants of all levels. Link:Lausanne Marathon
6. Geneva International Contemporary Art Fair (artgenève)
When: October 10-13, 2024 A prestigious contemporary art fair bringing together collectors, artists, and galleries to showcase cutting-edge art. Link:artgenève
7. Swiss City Marathon Lucerne
When: October 27, 2024 Lucerne’s annual marathon winds through the picturesque old town and along the shores of Lake Lucerne, providing stunning views of the Alps. Link:Swiss City Marathon Lucerne
8. Zibelemärit (Onion Market) in Bern
When: October 28, 2024 Although the main event is in November, preparations for Bern’s iconic Onion Market begin in October, featuring stalls with onion garlands, crafts, and food. Link:Zibelemärit Bern
9. St. Gallen OLMA Swiss Agricultural Fair
When: October 10-20, 2024 Switzerland’s largest agricultural fair, featuring livestock shows, food exhibitions, and rural traditions. Link:OLMA St. Gallen
10. Creux du Van Hike
When: Throughout October Hike through the stunning Creux du Van, a natural amphitheater known for its towering cliffs and panoramic views in the Jura region. Link:Creux du Van
11. Wine Harvest Festival in Neuchâtel
When: October 4-6, 2024 Celebrate the annual wine harvest in Neuchâtel with parades, tastings, and vineyard tours. Link:Fête des Vendanges Neuchâtel
12. Montreux Art Gallery (MAG)
When: October 30 – November 3, 2024 An important contemporary art fair attracting collectors and art lovers from around the world to the stunning lakeside town of Montreux. Link:Montreux Art Gallery
13. Chestnut Festival in Ascona
When: October 12-13, 2024 This traditional festival celebrates the chestnut harvest with local products, chestnut-based dishes, and folkloric music in the charming town of Ascona. Link:Ascona Chestnut Festival
14. Federal Wrestling and Alpine Games (Schwingfest)
When: October 5-6, 2024 A traditional Swiss sports event in Schwyz featuring wrestling, stone throwing, and alphorn competitions. Link:Schwingfest
15. Geneva International Book and Press Fair
When: October 24-27, 2024 This large literary event gathers authors, journalists, and book lovers for readings, discussions, and exhibitions. Link:Geneva Book Fair
16. Lugano Bike Marathon
When: October 13, 2024 A scenic bike race around Lake Lugano, offering categories for both professional and amateur cyclists. Link:Lugano Bike Marathon
17. Fully Chestnut Festival
When: October 19-20, 2024 In the town of Fully in Valais, this festival celebrates the chestnut harvest with food, music, and local markets. Link:Fully Chestnut Festival
18. Cully Jazz Festival Autumn Sessions
When: October 18-20, 2024 An intimate jazz festival held in the heart of the Lavaux vineyards, featuring top jazz musicians in cozy venues. Link:Cully Jazz Festival
19. Grindelwald Farmers Market
When: October 5, 2024 A traditional market in the Alpine village of Grindelwald, offering local produce, handmade goods, and Swiss specialties. Link:Grindelwald Tourism
20. Geneva Chocolate Festival
When: October 25-27, 2024 A paradise for chocolate lovers, featuring tastings, workshops, and demonstrations by Switzerland’s top chocolatiers. Link:Geneva Chocolate Festival
