Official Zermatt Fasnacht Parade Times

The main parade usually begins in the early afternoon on Dirty Thursday. For 2026, the festivities start around 1:30 PM in the village center. Crowds gather early to see the Guggenmusik bands perform their loud music. You should check the Zermatt Tourism website for any last-minute schedule changes.

Evening events continue long after the sun sets behind the Matterhorn. Most musical groups perform again at 8:00 PM in various local bars. These smaller concerts offer a more intimate look at the local traditions. Use our when is Fasnacht Carnival in Zermatt 2026 guide to plan your dates.

The entire celebration lasts for several days before the start of Lent. Children often have their own special parade earlier in the week. This youth event typically starts around 10:00 AM on the preceding Tuesday. It is a great way for families to enjoy the festive atmosphere together.

Keep in mind that times can shift slightly depending on the winter weather. Heavy snowfall might delay the start of the musical processions by a few minutes. Always arrive at least thirty minutes early to secure a good standing spot. The energy in the village is highest right before the first drum beats.

The 2026 Zermatt Fasnacht Parade Route

The parade route is very easy to follow because Zermatt is a small village. The procession typically begins at the Bahnhofplatz near the main train station. From there, the groups move slowly down the famous Bahnhofstrasse street. This is the main thoroughfare where most shops and restaurants are located.

The route continues for about 500 meters toward the center of the village. It passes the Matterhorn Museum before reaching the historic church square. This area serves as the final destination for many of the performing groups. For more details, see our Zermatt Carnival Fasnacht guide for 2026.

The entire walking distance is relatively short and suitable for all ages. You will see many people wearing traditional wooden masks during the walk. These masks represent local spirits and folklore characters from the Valais region. The path is completely car-free, making it very safe for pedestrians and families.

The parade route includes the following key locations:

• Bahnhofplatz (The starting point near the trains)
• Bahnhofstrasse (The main shopping street for viewing)
• Kirchplatz (The church square for the grand finale)
• Hinterdorfstrasse (The historic old part of the village)

Best Viewing Spots for the Parade

Finding the right place to stand is essential for the best experience. The Bahnhofstrasse offers the most excitement but also has the largest crowds. If you want to take close-up photos, stand near the Post Office. This area provides great lighting and enough space to see the costumes clearly.

The Kirchbrücke bridge is another fantastic location for watching the colorful procession. It offers a slightly elevated view of the groups as they pass by. You can also see the Matterhorn in the background if the sky is clear. Check out our list of best spots to watch Zermatt Carnival for more tips.

The church square is the best place to watch the final musical performances. The acoustics in the square make the Guggenmusik sound very powerful and exciting. Be prepared for loud noises and a very dense crowd in this area. It is the heart of the party during the Fasnacht celebrations.

For a quieter experience, try standing near the entrance of the Hinterdorfstrasse. This historic street has old wooden barns that create a beautiful backdrop. Fewer tourists gather here compared to the main station area. You can enjoy the parade with a bit more breathing room and peace.

Tips for Attending Zermatt Carnival

The weather in February can be very cold in the Swiss mountains. You should wear several layers of warm clothing and waterproof winter boots. Standing on the snow for hours can make your feet feel very cold. Don't forget to pack a hat, gloves, and a warm scarf.

Zermatt is a car-free village, so you must arrive by train. You can check the SBB CFF FFS website for the latest train schedules. Most visitors park their cars in the nearby village of Täsch. From there, a shuttle train runs every twenty minutes to the center of Zermatt.

Hungry travelers should try some local snacks while waiting for the parade. Many stalls sell hot sausages, spicy mulled wine, and traditional fried pastries. You can learn more about what to eat during Zermatt Fasnacht in our food guide. These treats will keep you warm and energized during the long festivities.

Booking your hotel early is very important for the Carnival season. Rooms fill up months in advance because this is a peak travel time. Expect higher prices for accommodation during the week of Fasnacht in 2026. Always confirm your reservation details before you start your journey to the mountains.