Descente des Alpages 2024 in Annecy
Welcome to Annecy, one of the most beautiful cities in France, nestled in the heart of the Alps, which is part of the must-see places to visit in Haute Savoie! Known for its majestic lake, Savoyard traditions, and robust health, Annecy has new surprises in store for the coming year. Among the many events enlivening the city, the “Descente des Alpages” is undoubtedly the most anticipated. Let us guide you through what 2024 has in store.
When will the Descente des Alpages take place in Annecy in 2024?
First information, the most important of course, this year the Descente des Alpages in Annecy will take place on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. As in previous years, visitors will be able to attend a parade of animals in the heart of the city, musical performances, artisanal activities, and of course tastings of local products, as well as demonstrations of traditional crafts.
An event rich in traditions
The Descente des Alpages is an ancient tradition marking the return of the animals from the high pastures to the valley at the end of summer. This event is celebrated with enthusiasm in Annecy, a city that values its customs.
Every year, on the second Saturday of October, the streets of the old town dress in their finest to welcome herds, shepherds, and spectators from all over Savoie, and even from all of France. The Descente des Alpages 2024 promises to be even more spectacular with a multitude of planned activities.
An entertainment program for all
No doubt, the Descente des Alpages 2024 in Annecy will be a celebration not to be missed. The city has planned many activities for young and old alike. On the program: parade of herds, demonstrations of traditional skills, tastings of local products, folk music concerts, and much more.
On the program of this 51st Descente des Alpages
- All day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. : presentation of old trades and musical performances in the old town
- 2:30 p.m. : grand parade in the alleys of the old town with a 2.5 km route, to admire more than 600 animals including geese, cows, Saint Bernard dogs, donkeys, chickens, horses, goats, sheep.
The city of Annecy has also planned new activities for this 2024 edition, always in a spirit of sharing and conviviality. Tradition blends with modernity to offer everyone a colorful event.
Animal health and respect at the heart of the event
During this descent, animal health is a major concern. The respect for animal welfare is at the core of the organizers’ and participants’ concerns. Each animal participating in the descent is carefully examined to ensure its good health.
Furthermore, this year, Annecy places great emphasis on raising public awareness about animal welfare. Numerous educational workshops will be organized to help people understand the importance of respecting animals and their environment.
The Descente des Alpages, a unifying event
The Descente des Alpages is not only an event for Annecy, it is also a festival that brings together all of Savoie, and even beyond. Every year, thousands of people travel to Annecy to take part in this unique celebration.
And you? Will you be joining this year? Don’t miss this event which is a true immersion into Savoyard culture, a return to roots that feels good.
The Descente des Alpages 2024 in Annecy is an unmissable event in Savoyard life. Between traditions, sharing and respect for animals, this celebration promises to be full of emotions and discoveries. So, see you on the second Saturday of October to experience this highlight of the year together. We look forward to welcoming many of you to celebrate this unique event and live an unforgettable moment in the heart of the Alps!
Some practical advice for coming to the Descente des Alpages in Annecy
A major event in Annecy life, the Alpages festival attracts more than 100,000 people in the city each year for this event, so some precautions are necessary:
- it is highly recommended to come early
- if you are coming from far away, ideally arrive the day before and stay in the center of Annecy. But here too, as places are limited, it is advisable to book very early.
- If arriving the same day, you will need to park far from the historic center and favor park-and-ride facilities and coming by bus. Parking in the historic center is limited and will quickly fill up.
Photo Credits © Philippe Corbex and Didier Baillet,- https://www.annecy-traditions.fr/
