New Year and Touch the Mountains Concert

Interlaken starts the year with massive energy. The Touch the Mountains concert happens every year on January 1st. It is a free open-air event in the town center. Thousands of people gather to hear top Swiss musicians perform. The music starts in the early afternoon on the Höheweg. This is the main park in the middle of Interlaken.

You can enjoy various food stalls during the show. They serve local favorites like bratwurst and mulled wine. The atmosphere is friendly and very lively. Most people arrive early to get a good spot near the stage. You should check the Touch the Mountains 2026 lineup before you go. This helps you plan which bands you want to see most.

The highlight of the day is the grand fireworks display. This usually begins around 8:00 PM on the Höheweg. The colorful lights reflect off the snowy peaks nearby. It is a breathtaking sight that marks the new year. Many local hotels offer special packages for this event. You should book your Interlaken New Year's Eve stay early. Rooms fill up quickly for this popular holiday period.

Getting around Interlaken on January 1st is easy by foot. Most of the town center becomes a pedestrian zone. This allows everyone to walk freely between the stages and food areas. Make sure to wear warm, waterproof boots. You will be standing on snow or cold pavement for several hours.

Harder Potschete Folklore Parade 2026

The Harder Potschete is a unique tradition in Interlaken. It takes place every year on January 2nd. This event dates back many centuries. It features the legendary "Hardermannli" and his masked followers. These characters represent the spirits of the Harder Kulm mountain. They roam the streets to chase away winter spirits.

The parade begins in the late afternoon. You will see people wearing hand-carved wooden masks. These masks are often scary and very detailed. The participants wear heavy bells and carry large sticks. They run through the crowds to create a loud and exciting atmosphere. It is a highlight of the Interlaken Winter Events 2026 season.

Spectators line the streets to watch the procession. The route usually goes through the old town and the main square. You should find a spot at least 30 minutes before it starts. The parade is free to attend for everyone. It offers a deep look into Swiss alpine culture and folklore.

After the parade, the town stays very active. Many people visit local pubs and restaurants. You can find traditional music playing in many venues. It is a great time to try local Swiss cheese dishes. The energy in the town is truly infectious during this festival. It is a must-see for any visitor in early January.

Ice Magic Interlaken Skating Experience

Ice Magic is a winter wonderland in the center of town. It transforms the Höheweg into a massive skating park. Unlike standard rinks, it features winding ice runways. These paths connect several different skating areas. It creates a fun and adventurous experience for all ages. The park is usually open from late December through February.

You can rent skates and helmets at the entrance. There are also supports for children who are learning to skate. Evening sessions are especially beautiful with colorful lights. You can find more details about Ice Magic Interlaken tickets online. Prices are reasonable for families and groups. It is one of the most popular spots in town.

The site also includes a Swiss Chalet restaurant. You can enjoy a warm fondue after your skating session. There are also stalls selling hot chocolate and snacks. You might even try Bavarian curling with your friends. This is a traditional winter game similar to bowling on ice. It is a great way to spend a cold afternoon.

Ice Magic often hosts special themed nights. These include disco skating and family fun days. The rink is kept in excellent condition by professional staff. It offers a safe environment for everyone to enjoy. You should visit during the week to avoid the largest crowds. Weekends can get very busy with local visitors.

Interlaken Christmas Markets 2026

The Christmas markets in Interlaken are truly charming. They usually run from late November until early January. You will find wooden stalls decorated with festive lights. They sell a variety of handmade Swiss gifts. You can find wood carvings, knitwear, and local honey. It is the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs.

Food is a major part of the market experience. You must try the roasted chestnuts and gingerbread. The scent of cinnamon and pine fills the air. Many visitors enjoy a cup of hot spiced cider. You can check the Interlaken Christmas market dates to plan your visit. The markets are usually located near the town center.

The markets also feature live music and carols. Local choirs often perform on small stages. Children can enjoy rides on a vintage carousel. The atmosphere is warm and very welcoming. It feels like a scene from a classic holiday movie. Most stalls open around midday and close in the evening.

Visiting the market is a great way to meet locals. Many residents gather here to socialize after work. You can learn about Swiss holiday traditions from the vendors. They are often happy to share stories about their crafts. The market is easy to reach from the main train stations. It is a highlight of the early winter season.

Winter Sports and Spectator Festivals

Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau Region. This area is famous for world-class winter sports. In 2026, many major competitions will take place nearby. The most famous is the Lauberhorn World Cup race in Wengen. This is the longest downhill ski race in the world. Thousands of fans travel through Interlaken to reach the event.

You can easily reach the ski slopes from Interlaken. Trains run frequently to Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. These towns offer access to hundreds of kilometers of runs. You can find a list of winter sports festivals in Interlaken and beyond. There are events for skiing, snowboarding, and even sledging. The energy in the mountains is incredible.

If you prefer to watch, there are many public viewing areas. Large screens are often set up in Interlaken for major races. You can cheer for your favorite athletes with other fans. The town becomes a hub for sports enthusiasts in January. Many bars host "apres-ski" parties during the race weekends. It is a very social time to visit the region.

For those who want to participate, rentals are available everywhere. You can find high-quality gear in many shops in Interlaken. Beginners can also book lessons with local ski schools. The slopes are well-maintained and offer various difficulty levels. There is something for every skill level in the Jungfrau area. Make sure to check the snow reports daily.

Practical Tips for Interlaken Winter Events 2026

Planning is key for a successful winter trip. Interlaken can be very cold in January and February. Temperatures often stay below freezing during the day. You should pack high-quality thermal layers and a heavy coat. Waterproof gloves and a warm hat are essential items. Check our Interlaken winter travel tips for more packing advice.

The Interlaken Guest Card is a valuable tool for tourists. You receive this card when you stay in local accommodation. It offers free travel on local buses and trains. This makes it very easy to reach different event venues. You can also get discounts on many local attractions. Always keep this card with you when exploring the town.

Public transport is very reliable in Switzerland. You can use the SBB website to check train schedules. During major events, extra trains are often added to the schedule. However, they can still be very crowded. Try to travel during off-peak hours if possible. This will make your journey much more comfortable.

Booking your hotel early is highly recommended. The town is very popular during the New Year period. Many people also visit for the Harder Potschete parade. You might find better rates by booking several months in advance. Consider staying near the Interlaken West or Ost stations. This gives you the best access to transport and events.

After a busy day, explore the local dining scene. You can find many cozy spots in our winter nightlife guide. From quiet wine bars to lively pubs, there is plenty to do. Most places serve food until late in the evening. It is the perfect way to end your day in Interlaken.