On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the herds descend into the old town of Annecy. The Annecy Traditions association has just unveiled the program for this edition, featuring musical stages, about thirty groups and animals, and the grand parade at 2:30 pm.
It is one of the most anticipated events of the autumn in Haute-Savoie. Since 1973, the Return of the Alpine Pastures celebrates the end of summer grazing: for one day, cows, sheep, donkeys, and horses take over the cobbled streets of the old town, between the arcades and canals. The 2026 edition has a bit more than usual, since the UN has declared this year the “International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.”
A whole day of celebration, from 9 am to 6 pm
From the morning, the old town transforms into a large Alpine village: trades of yesteryear, local products, valley crafts. Six stages line the route, from Place Sainte-Claire to Quai Vicenza. You will notably hear Magalie the Yodeler from the Aravis on Rue de la République and the accordion players from the Val de Thônes at Place Notre-Dame.
Rue du Lac will host a sheep shearing demonstration, and the Young Farmers of Haute-Savoie will set up their village at Place de la Libération. Brass bands, accordion players, and singers will wander the streets all day long.
👉 All the stages, schedules, and artists are detailed in our full article: The Return of the Alpine Pastures 2026 in Annecy
2:30 pm: the grand parade
The highlight of the day starts from the Faubourg des Balmettes for a large loop through the city center. In the procession, you will find sheep, donkeys, carriages, miniature horses, geese from La Roche-sur-Foron, and even Saint Bernards and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
The bell ringers come partly from Switzerland, from Nendaz and Môtiers. They will be accompanied by ten folk groups, coming from La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand, Saint-Gervais, but also from Forez and Mâcon.
The steam traction engine of the Friends of Old Seynod and the carillon will also be part of the event.
Good practices to enjoy it
The old town attracts a huge crowd every year. To get a good view of the parade, it is better to arrive early and find your spot along the route. A space reserved for people with reduced mobility is provided near the Notre-Dame church, in a new location this year. The organizers also ask to keep the path clear for the procession and to remain cautious near the animals.
For parking, getting around, and finding the best viewpoint, consult our complete guide to the Return of the Alpine Pastures 2026. There you will find the parade route street by street, the list of all participants, and practical information.
Cover photo: Gilles Piel – OT Annecy – Apidae Tourisme
