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The picture shows the Gurtenfestival in full ecstasy: the stage glows in the light of the spotlights, the crowd dances, cheers and enthusiastically raises its hands in the air. The atmosphere is electrifying - pure musical joy in the open air.

Gurtenfestival

Macklemore, Nina Chuba, Will Smith and Lola Young – these and many other exciting acts are ready to set Bern’s local mountain alight. The legendary Gurtenfestival is back for another round – and this year it’s offering more than just music.
16July 2025
Past event
TOP-EVENT
19July 2025
Past event
TOP-EVENT

In July, Bern’s biggest group hike is likely to take place – when thousands of festival fans make their way up the “Güsche” (Gurten) on foot. Those needing a breather along the way can stop at the Güsche Bar. If you prefer to take it easy, hop on the Gurten funicular. At the top, everyone is greeted by the same spectacle: national and international acts performing their hits across three stages, thrilling thousands of fans. On the popular “Waldbühne” (forest stage), a new generation of Swiss artists creates magical moments. Among them: Zoë Më – whose song “Voyage” captured the hearts of hundreds of thousands at Eurovision and is sure to deliver goosebump moments. More than just music – the Forum. On this new stage, festivalgoers can look forward to inspiring live podcasts, intimate interviews and clever comedy. And of course, alongside all the music, visitors will be treated to culinary delights.

A vibrant crowd enjoys the Gurtenfestival, under the spell of the rousing live music on the big stage.
© Gurtenfestival Manuel Lopez

Quite a lot has changed since the first edition of the “International Folk Festival Bern-Gurten” in the year 1971, when it was still far from being the huge event that it is today – so much so that the organizing committee even forgot the stage lighting. Hastily procured lamps prevented a festival in the dark. Today, the Gurtenfestival is a well-established event. Yet its special charm, relaxed atmosphere and unmistakable Bernese ease remain as present as ever.

Discover this year’s line-up here.

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Eine fröhliche Gruppe von Freunden sitzt auf einer sonnigen Restaurantterrasse am Fluss. Sie lachen und genießen ihre Getränke in entspannter Atmosphäre. Die malerische Umgebung mit grünem Fluss und üppiger Natur verstärkt das Gefühl von Freude und Gemeinschaft.

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