Winter Festivals in Switzerland: Light, Art, and Seasonal Magic

Winter in Switzerland is about much more than snow-covered Alps and ski resorts. During this season, the country comes alive with light, music, and art through winter festivals that bring together local communities and visitors from around the world.

The IvAlive team has selected a few events worth visiting this winter. They differ in style and format, but all are equally inspiring and memorable.

Hot Air Balloon Festival in Château-d’Œx

Runs until February 1

📍 Place du Village 6, 1660 Château-d’Œx

The charming Alpine town of Château-d’Œx is often called the hot air balloon capital of Switzerland — and for good reason. During the festival, the sky fills with dozens of colorful balloons, creating a truly breathtaking view.

The program includes daytime and evening shows, demonstration flights, balloon rides for visitors, and sporting competitions.

📌 Admission:

• Weekdays — free entry

• Weekends — from CHF 10 for adults

More details: https://www.festivaldeballons.ch/en

Murten Light Festival

Runs until February 1

📍 Hauptgasse 27, 3280 Murten

Each winter, the medieval old town of Murten turns into an open-air gallery of light and music. Streets, squares, and historic buildings are brought to life with artistic projections, light installations, and specially composed music accompaniment.

This festival tells stories through light and quiet moments, inviting visitors to slow down, walk, and reflect.

📌 Tickets:

• Advance booking — CHF 8 for adults

• On-site purchase — from CHF 12 (depending on the show)

• Children under 16 — free

Tickets and information: https://www.murtenlichtfestival.ch/tickets

Geneva Lux Festival

January 16 – February 1

📍 Quai du Mont-Blanc, 1204 Geneva

Geneva Lux is a free light art festival that invites visitors to see the city from a new perspective. In the evening, light installations appear across the city, turning familiar streets and waterfronts into poetic spaces filled with imagination and quiet wonder.

📌 Free entry

Program and details: https://genevalux.ch/en