A region full of traditions

The Jungfrau Region is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and majestic mountain peaks, but also for its deep-rooted traditions, which are still cherished and celebrated today. Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the Jungfrau Region.

The Velogemel - a Grindelwald achievement

Today, fresh snow on roads and paths is cleared in a very short time using modern machines. This was not always the case. 100 years ago, it was not so easy to get around in deep snow. Christian Bühlmann, a woodcarver and singer from Grindelwald with a walking disability, found it too arduous to walk back home from his weekly rehearsals with the village music band. In 1911, he therefore made himself a snow bike to get him to his destination more quickly on flat and downhill stretches. The wooden frame on two runners could be steered with a handlebar. He moved forwards by pushing off with his legs. He called the vehicle the Velogemel. The name is a combination of the words Velo (Swiss German for bicycle) and Gemel, the Grindelwald dialect word for sledge. Velogemel can still be found on the toboggan runs in Grindelwald today. The Velogemel World Championships take place every February - anyone who wants to can take part.

 

The Lauterbrunnen lace-making parlour

"Lace-making is a handicraft technique in which various types of lace are made using bobbins (spindle-shaped 'bobbins', usually made of wood) and the yarn wound onto them." That's what it says on Wikipedia. Lace-making originated in Venice in the 16th century. The craft spread from Italy to many regions in Europe. One of these is the Lauterbrunnen Valley, where lace-making serves as an additional source of income for many poor families. Today, people here are endeavouring to keep the tradition alive. Every Friday afternoon, bobbin lace is made in the old schoolhouse in Lauterbrunnen - jewellery, scarves, hats, decorations. Interested guests can look over the lace-makers' shoulders and marvel at their craftsmanship. Lessons are also offered.

 

Folklore made in Switzerland

Alphorn sounds, Schwyzerörgeli music, yodelling and traditional costume groups, flag-wavers and much more. FOLKLORE is very important in the Jungfrau Region.

The alphorn, one of Switzerland's best-known musical symbols, is deeply rooted in the culture of the Jungfrau Region. The imposing woodwind instrument produces an unrivalled deep, melodic sound. The hand organ also has a strong connection to the Swiss musical tradition. In particular the "Schwyzerörgeli" (Swiss hand organ). Yodelling is a singing technique from Switzerland. A characteristic, melodic sound is produced by rapidly alternating between chest and head voice. The musical performances are often accompanied by dancers dressed in traditional costumes or flag-wavers.

In the summer months, folklore is celebrated in the Jungfrau Region with various festivals. On the Männlichen, for example. At the mountain spring festival in June, the traditional costume festival in July and the alphorn and flag-waving festival in August, there is always a concentrated load of Switzerland. But you can also immerse yourself in Swiss folklore at village festivals in each of our resorts, especially in the summer months.

A special kind of parade

Thousands of cows, sheep and goats spend the summer on the alp in the Jungfrau Region. The return of the animals and herdsmen is celebrated every year in a centuries-old custom. The cows, sheep and goats are adorned with colourful flower arrangements and bells during the Alpine processions - usually in September.

 


Say Cheese!

After the departure from the alp is before the "Chästeilet". This is when the cheese produced on the alp in summer is divided up among the farmers, the owners of the animals. This custom is always celebrated with a festival. A rich musical programme, culinary offerings, a large selection of alpine products and much more await you. The "Chästeilet" usually takes place in September.

The Velogemel World Championships, folklore events, Alpine processions, Chästeilet: you can find out which traditional festivals take place in the Jungfrau Region in our calendar of events.