Folk festivals
The folk festivals in the canton of Lucerne are vibrant events that celebrate the region’s unique culture and community spirit. Experience the fascination and be a part of it! Here are some of the most popular folk festivals celebrated in Lucerne:
Lucerne Fasnacht
Lucerne Fasnacht, or Lucerne Carnival, is a spectacular, colourful folk festival that transforms the city and the entire canton of Lucerne into a lively, exuberant hive of excitement every year. Dating back to the 15th century, the Lucerne Fasnacht is one of the oldest and most traditional carnival events in Switzerland During Fasnacht, Lucerne’s streets undergo a transformation into a dazzling spectacle of ornately designed masks, costumes and colourful parades. Providing rousing musical accompaniment to the festival are the passionate “Guggenmusiken” musicians. The highlight of the carnival is the “Fritschi Parade”, where Fritschi, the legendary jester and symbol of Lucerne carnival, wends his way through the city. The carnival atmosphere is full of fun, humour and a welcoming community spirit.
Schwingen and Älpler festivals
The Canton of Lucerne and Central Switzerland celebrate the Swiss national sport of wrestling known as “Schwingen”. Alongside Schwingen festivals large and small, the Central Swiss Schwingen Wrestling and Alpine Festival is the highlight of the Central Swiss wrestling season. It attracts the top wrestlers from all over central Switzerland, who battle it out in exciting bouts to see who is crowned champion. The atmosphere at the festivals is very relaxed and whoever you are sitting next to will gladly let you in on what this traditional sport is all about.
Gansabhauet – a unique custom in Sursee
Every year on St. Martin’s Day the town of Sursee celebrates a unique custom that always draws the crowds in big numbers. Young boys, wearing a purple tunic, a sun-shaped mask and a blindfold, use a blunt sabre to try and knock down a goose that has been suspended feet down. As only one blow each is allowed, it’s usually quite a while before the goose eventually takes a downward tumble to the applause of the audience.
LUGA – Central Switzerland’s spring fair
LUGA is a firm fixture in Central Switzerland’s spring calendar. Regional and national exhibitors gather at the fair, turning Lucerne’s trade fair venue into a large and popular marketplace and fairground. LUGA is popular with young and old and is also a major cultural event, bringing together the whole of Central Switzerland.
Museums
Lucerne’s museums have an exciting array of exhibitions to suit all tastes. With technological marvels from the history of transport, art treasures by Picasso and Klee, to finds from the Stone Age and folklore from the region – there’s something for everyone.
Here are some of the most important museums in the Lucerne region:
Swiss Museum of Transport
The Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne is one of the most frequently visited museums in the country. It offers a fascinating look into the history of transport, from the beginnings of the steam locomotive age to modern aircraft and space travel. Current topics are also highlighted in regularly changing exhibitions.
Richard Wagner Museum
The Richard Wagner Museum in Lucerne is housed in the former home of the famous composer. Here visitors can learn more about his life and work and wander through his garden on the shores of Lake Lucerne.
Rosengart Collection
The Rosengart Collection in Lucerne is an art lover’s delight. It displays an extensive collection of works by world-famous painter Pablo Picasso, as well as other important modern artists.
History Museum
The Museum of History displays, collects, documents and communicates cultural history and folklore from the area of the canton of Lucerne and central Switzerland. At the History Museum Lucerne, topical relevance and experience play an important role. Theatre, exhibitions and events bring the cultural history of the region to life.
Palaces and castles
Countless palaces, castles and ruins dot the landscape in the canton of Lucerne. Immerse yourself in the history of Lucerne and Switzerland and delve into the stories of the region. Here are some of the most fascinating castles and palaces you can visit in Canton Lucerne:
Kastelen Castle Ruins Alberswil
Walk through the fairytale beech forest to the hilltop ruins of Kastelen Castle in Alberswil and experience history and nature in a unique way. The accessible castle ruins from the 13th century are the best preserved in Canton Lucerne. An impressive panoramic view opens up from the viewing platform inside the tower. On a clear day, you can see the Alps, the Jura and the Swiss Central Plateau region on the horizon.
Wyher Castle
The medieval moated castle of Wyher is set in idyllic parkland in Lucerne’s hinterland. Built in the 13th century, it now houses a museum that gives visitors an insight into the history and culture of the region.
Musegg Wall
The Musegg Wall and the nine Musegg Towers constitute a landmark of the city of Lucerne. They were part of the city’s fortifications and are mostly accessible today. Visiting them is a real experience for visitors and locals alike, and the view of the city, lake and mountains is truly magnificent.
