On June 13–14, 2026, Evolène celebrates mountain guides with convivial activities on Saturday and traditions, a parade, and award ceremonies on Sunday, in the heart of Val d’Hérens.

On June 13 and 14, 2026, Evolène will host the 63rd Cantonal Mountain Guides Festival, paying tribute to this emblematic Alpine profession, deeply rooted in the history and identity of the region.

Saturday will be dedicated to conviviality, with film screenings, discussions with mountain guides, a musical evening, and food stands.

On Sunday, traditions will take center stage with a mass in the Dent-Blanche park, the blessing of ropes and ice axes, a parade through the village, followed by a banquet and an award ceremony honoring jubilee guides and distinguished guests.

This event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of mountain guides and experience an authentic moment in the heart of the Val d’Hérens.

PROGRAM

Saturday, June 13 – Village of Evolène

4:00 pm: Opening of the festival
4:30 pm: Screening of the film « Takk Livet » in the guides’ tent
5:30 pm: Discussion and exchange with the filmmakers
6:30 pm: Apéritif
7:00 pm: Screening of the film « Sur les traces de Lucy Walker » at the Evolène cinema
From 7:00 pm: Food stands in the guides’ tent
9:00 pm: Concert Øxymore
From 10:30 pm: Dance party – DJ

Sunday, June 14

10:00 am: Mass and blessing of ropes and ice axes – Dent-Blanche park
11:30 am: Parade of guides and folk groups – Main street
12:00 pm: Official apéritif – Dent-Blanche park
1:00 pm: Guides’ banquet – Place du Clos Lombard
3:30 pm: Award ceremony for jubilee guides and distinguished guests – Place du Clos Lombard