Every autumn, Annecy completely changes atmosphere for one day. The bells of the herds ring through the cobbled streets, the animals cross the old town under the amazed eyes of visitors, and Savoyard traditions take back possession of the historic center. On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the eagerly awaited Return of the Alpine Pastures will make its grand return to the streets of Annecy for a new edition that promises to be even more spectacular.
For more than fifty years, this popular festival has become one of the most emblematic events in Haute-Savoie. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year who come to discover the world of the alpine pastures, mountain traditions, and Savoyard heritage in a unique atmosphere.
A deeply rooted Savoyard tradition in history
The Return of the Alpine Pastures has its origins in an ancient alpine pastoral tradition. At the end of summer, the herds would descend from the mountains after several months spent in high-altitude pastures. This moment once marked an important stage in agricultural life before the arrival of winter.
In Annecy, this tradition has been officially celebrated since 1973 thanks to the Annecy Traditions association, the historic organizer of the event. Over the decades, the event has become one of the largest folk festivals in the French Alps while retaining its authentic spirit.
Annecy transformed into a huge Savoyard village
On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the old town of Annecy will once again host an impressive immersion into alpine culture. From the morning, the streets of the historic center will be animated by:
Visitors will be able to discover ancient know-how, regional crafts, and the flavors of the Savoyard terroir in a friendly atmosphere that has made the Return of the Alpine Pastures a success for over fifty years.
The great parade of the herds: the must-see moment
The highlight of the day remains obviously the great parade of animals through the streets of Annecy. Scheduled at 2:30 pm according to the first available information, it will feature several hundred animals parading through the heart of the old town.
Abondance and Tarine cows, goats, donkeys, horses, geese, mountain dogs, and other alpine animals will cross the historic streets accompanied by breeders in traditional costume, decorated floats, and folk groups.
The contrast between the herds and the colorful façades of the old town of Annecy creates a particularly spectacular atmosphere every year. The bells of the animals ring under the arcades while the visitors crowd along the route to attend the procession.
A festive atmosphere throughout the city
The Return of the Alpine Pastures is not limited to the parade alone. All day long, Annecy lives to the rhythm of Savoyard traditions with activities spread over several areas of the city center.
Folkloric orchestras, accordionists, Alpine horns, and musical groups animate the squares and historic alleys while visitors enjoy reblochon, diots, tartiflette, or regional artisanal products.
Traditional trades also hold an important place in the festival with demonstrations by blacksmiths, weavers, woodturners, or leather craftsmen. This immersion in alpine heritage greatly contributes to the identity of the Return of the Alpine Pastures.
To read: What to visit in Annecy
A major autumn event in Haute-Savoie
The Return of the Alpine Pastures is now considered one of the major popular events of autumn in the Alps. Some editions attract nearly 100,000 visitors to the streets of Annecy, proof of the public’s attachment to this traditional festival.
The event also serves to highlight the essential role of pastoralism and alpine pastures in Savoyard identity. Behind the folklore and animations, the festival showcases the work of breeders and the agricultural traditions that still shape alpine landscapes today.
Practical information for the Return of the Alpine Pastures 2026
Given the very high attendance, it is strongly recommended to arrive early in the day and to favor public transport or park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city center.
Schedule (indicative)
Indicative schedule, based on previous editions, will be updated as soon as the official program is published by Annecy Traditions.
- 9:00 am – Opening of the day: installation of the craft market and terroir product stands in the old town
- 9:30 am – 12:00 pm – Street activities: demonstrations of old trades, folk groups, traditional music
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm – Festive lunch break: Savoyard catering (diots, tartiflette, reblochon) and tastings
- 2:30 pm – Great parade of the herds in the old town, highlight of the day
- 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm – Resumption of activities: dances, music, continuation of the craft market
- 6:00 pm – Closing of the day
To follow upcoming news and the detailed program of the 2026 edition, it is possible to consult the official site of Annecy Traditions or that of the Annecy Lake Tourist Office.
