Flower‑crowned cows arrive at Gstaad's Züglete festival

Decorated cows have begun their descent from the Alpine pastures into the Swiss resort of Gstaad as part of the annual Züglete festival, an event that celebrates traditional cattle‑herding customs. The procession, featuring bovines adorned with elaborate floral and painted decorations, marks the start of a week‑long celebration that draws both local residents and international visitors.

Throughout the festival, the town’s streets host live music, folk performances, and market stalls offering regional foods and crafts, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracts tourists from around the world. Organizers report that attendance this year exceeds previous records, with crowds gathering to watch the cows, participate in cultural workshops, and experience the unique blend of heritage and contemporary entertainment that defines Züglete.

The Züglete festival continues to reinforce Gstaad’s reputation as a cultural hub in the Alps, promoting the preservation of historic agricultural practices while contributing to the local economy through increased tourism and media exposure.