Every autumn, Annecy completely changes its atmosphere for a day. The bells of the herds ring through the cobblestone streets, the animals cross the old town under the amazed eyes of visitors, and the Savoyard traditions take back possession of the historic center. On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the highly anticipated Return of the Alpages will make its grand comeback in the streets of Annecy for a new edition that promises to be even more spectacular.
For over fifty years, this popular festival has become one of the most emblematic events of Haute-Savoie. Every year it attracts tens of thousands of visitors who come to discover the world of the alpages, mountain traditions, and Savoyard heritage in a unique atmosphere.
A Savoyard tradition deeply rooted in history
The Return of the Alpages finds its origin in an ancient alpine pastoral tradition. At the end of summer, the herds would come down from the mountains after several months spent in the high pastures. This moment once marked an important phase 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 preserving its authentic spirit.
Annecy transformed into a huge Savoyard village
On Saturday, October 10, 2026, Annecy’s old town will once again host an impressive immersion into alpine culture. From the morning, the streets of the historic center will be lively with:
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 Alpages successful for over fifty years.
The grand parade of the herds: the unmissable moment
The highlight of the day remains, of course, the grand parade of animals in the streets of Annecy. Scheduled for 2:30 p.m. according to the first available information, it will see several hundred animals parade 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 facades of Annecy’s old town creates a particularly spectacular atmosphere every year. The bells of the animals ring under the arcades while visitors crowd along the route to watch the procession.
A festive atmosphere throughout the city
The Return of the Alpages is not limited to the parade alone. All day long, Annecy lives to the rhythm of Savoyard traditions with activities spread across several parts of the city center.
Folk orchestras, accordionists, Alpine horns, and musical groups animate the squares and historic alleys while visitors taste reblochon, diots, tartiflette, or regional artisanal products.
Traditional crafts also hold an important place in the festival with demonstrations by blacksmiths, weavers, wood turners, or leather artisans. This immersion in Alpine heritage greatly contributes to the identity of the Return of the Alpages.
To read: What to visit in Annecy
An unmissable autumn event in Haute-Savoie
The Return of the Alpages is today regarded as one of the major popular gatherings of autumn in the Alps. Some editions attract nearly 100,000 visitors in the streets of Annecy, proof of the public’s attachment to this traditional festival.
The event also serves to remind of the essential role of pastoralism and the alpages in Savoyard identity. Behind the folklore and the activities, the festival highlights the work of breeders and agricultural traditions that still shape Alpine landscapes today.
Practical information for the Return of the Alpages 2026
Given the very large attendance, it is strongly advised to arrive early in the day and to prefer public transport or park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city center.
To follow upcoming information and the detailed program of the 2026 edition, it is possible to consult the official website of Annecy Traditions or that of the Annecy Lake Tourist Office.
