2026 Horu Trophy Zermatt Event Schedule & Guide
The Horu Trophy Zermatt event schedule 2026 offers four days of exciting outdoor curling action. This famous tournament takes place in the heart of the beautiful Swiss Alps every year. You can watch skilled teams compete on natural ice rinks during this coming January. It is a must-see event for any winter sports fan visiting Zermatt this season.
Overview of the 2026 Horu Trophy Schedule
The tournament typically runs from Thursday to Sunday in the third week of January. For 2026, the expected dates are January 15th through to January 18th. Matches begin early each morning to take advantage of the cold alpine temperatures. This timing ensures the natural ice remains in peak condition for all the players.
You can expect the first stones to be thrown around 8:00 AM every morning. The Horu Trophy curling Zermatt event features over 70 international teams. Each team plays several matches during the opening round-robin phase of the tournament. The atmosphere in the village is electric as hundreds of athletes arrive.
The official schedule is usually finalized a few weeks before the event actually starts. You can find physical copies of the daily match-ups at the local tourism office. Most games are held at the Obere Matten rinks near the village center. This location offers easy access for both the players and curious spectators.
Daily Breakdown of the Curling Matches
Thursday serves as the opening day for the 2026 Horu Trophy competition. Teams are divided into groups for the initial qualifying rounds of competitive play. You will see matches running concurrently across more than a dozen outdoor rinks. This high volume of action makes for a very dynamic viewing experience.
Friday and Saturday continue with more intense rounds of group stage play. These days are critical for teams hoping to reach the high final standings. You can witness strategic play and impressive teamwork throughout the entire day. Most afternoon sessions conclude just as the sun sets behind the mountains.
Sunday is the most anticipated day for best viewing spots for Horu Trophy Zermatt fans. The top-ranked teams face off in the semi-finals during the early morning. The grand final match usually takes place around midday on the main rink. A festive prize ceremony follows shortly after the final stone is played.
Evening Events and Social Gatherings
The Horu Trophy is just as famous for its parties as its curling. Every evening, the tournament village comes alive with music and local food. Participants and spectators gather to share stories from the day's exciting matches. These social hours are the perfect time to meet people from around the world.
The "Horu-Abend" is the centerpiece of the tournament's social event calendar. This gala dinner usually occurs on Saturday night in a large marquee. It features traditional Swiss entertainment and a multi-course meal for all guests. You must purchase tickets in advance if you wish to attend this dinner.
Many local bars in Zermatt also host smaller satellite events during the week. You will find curling fans celebrating in popular spots along the main street. The friendly vibe extends far beyond the ice rinks into the entire town. It is truly a community-wide celebration of winter sports and Swiss culture.
Spectator Tips for the 2026 Tournament
Watching the matches is completely free for everyone visiting the Zermatt area. You do not need to book tickets to stand by the rinks. This makes it one of the most accessible Zermatt winter events 2026 offers. Simply walk up and find a spot along the wooden fences.
The weather in Zermatt during January can be extremely cold and windy. Wear thick wool socks and insulated boots to protect your feet from the ice. Many locals bring small mats to stand on while they watch the games. Layers of thermal clothing will help you stay warm during long match sessions.
You can purchase hot food and drinks from stalls located around the rinks. Try a portion of hot raclette or a cup of steaming mulled wine. These snacks are perfect for staying warm while cheering for your favorite teams. Remember to bring cash as some small vendors may not accept cards.
How to Reach the Curling Rinks
Zermatt is a car-free zone, so you cannot drive directly to the event. Most visitors arrive by train via the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn from Täsch. The Zermatt Tourism website provides updated travel info for all guests. The train station is only a five-minute walk from the main rinks.
Once you arrive in the village, follow the signs toward the "Sportplatz." The outdoor curling rinks in Zermatt Switzerland are very easy to find. You can also take a small electric taxi if you have heavy gear. Most hotels in the village are within walking distance of the tournament.
If you are staying outside of Zermatt, check the late-night train schedules. The trains to Täsch and Visp run frequently but have reduced night service. Plan your departure carefully if you stay for the evening social events. Using the official SBB app is the best way to track train times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the official dates for the Horu Trophy Zermatt 2026?
The Horu Trophy Zermatt 2026 is scheduled to take place from January 15th to January 18th. Matches start at 8:00 AM daily and continue through the afternoon. The final championship game occurs on Sunday morning at the Obere Matten rinks.
Do spectators need to buy tickets for the curling matches?
No, watching the curling matches is entirely free for all visitors in Zermatt. You can walk around the outdoor rinks and watch any game without a ticket. Only the special evening gala dinner requires a paid ticket purchased in advance.
How many teams participate in the Horu Trophy each year?
The tournament typically hosts over 70 teams from across Switzerland and other international countries. It is recognized as the largest open-air curling tournament in Europe. This high number of teams ensures constant action across multiple rinks throughout the weekend.
What is the best way to travel to Zermatt for the event?
The best way to reach Zermatt is by taking the Swiss national rail service. Since Zermatt is car-free, you must park in Täsch and take the shuttle train. The train station in Zermatt is located very close to the curling tournament venue.
The Horu Trophy Zermatt event schedule 2026 promises an unforgettable winter experience. Plan your visit early to secure the best accommodation in the village this year. Enjoy the unique combination of world-class curling and stunning mountain scenery in Switzerland. We hope to see you on the ice in Zermatt this coming January!