Each autumn, the mountains of Haute-Savoie come alive with the rhythm of the alpine descents. These traditional, colorful festivals mark the return of the herds to the valleys and celebrate an ancestral heritage. Between folklore, gastronomy, and conviviality, here are the must-experience descents in October.
A living tradition at the heart of the mountains
The descent of the alpine pastures is much more than a simple pastoral event. It is a moment of sharing that brings together residents, herders, and visitors around herds decorated with flowers and bells. This tradition, passed down since the Middle Ages, symbolizes the end of the summer grazing period, when the animals leave the high-altitude pastures to return to the valleys.
Each town that organizes its “désalpe” turns it into a true village festival, where demonstrations of know-how, producers’ markets, and folkloric entertainments intertwine.
The most emblematic descents in October
Annecy and its great return of the alpine pastures
Every second Saturday of October, the streets of Annecy fill with colorful herds, traditional music, and artisans in costumes. This year, it will be Saturday, October 11, 2025. The descent of the alpine pastures of Annecy is the best known in Haute-Savoie, attracting thousands of spectators every year. Between decorated cows, fanfares, and stands of Savoyard specialties, the atmosphere is simply magical.
Unfortunately, in this year 2025, due to the bovine nodular dermatitis crisis affecting Haute-Savoie, the majority of alpine descents have been canceled or will take place without cows.
What to experience during these festive days?
- Admire the herds: cows (not this year), goats, sheep, and sometimes even mountain dogs, richly adorned for the occasion.
- Taste the local specialties: tartiflettes, fondues, diots, apple fritters… a whole range of Savoyard delicacies.
- Discover old trades: blacksmiths, coopers, woodcarvers, or weavers share their know-how.
- Enjoy the entertainment: fanfares, folk groups, traditional dances and songs create a unique atmosphere.
Practical advice to fully enjoy
These festivals attract many people, especially in Annecy. To enjoy them calmly:
- Arrive early to find a good spot along the route.
- Prefer public transport whenever possible, as parking is often full.
- Dress warmly: October can bring cool mornings in the mountains.
- Allow time after the parade to explore the gourmet and craft stands.
An event to experience at least once
Attending an alpine descent in Haute-Savoie means immersing oneself in the living soul of the mountains. You feel the pride of the herders, the warmth of traditions, and the authenticity of a territory that knows how to share its history. Between autumn colors and bells ringing in the valleys, these festivals offer an unforgettable spectacle, to be seen at least once in a lifetime.
