Unspunnen Festival

The Unspunnen Festival is a traditional event held once every 12 years. What originated as a festival to reconcile city dwellers and country folk is today believed to be the world’s largest traditional gathering. Swiss wrestlers, yodellers, flag throwers, folk costume groups and droves of spectators come together in the town between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

One of many traditions celebrated here is the legendary stone tossing contest. The Unspunnen stone, weighing all of 83.5 kg, is lifted above the head and thrown as far as possible. The current distance record is 4.11 metres.

The Unspunnen Schwinget, or Swiss wrestling contest, is held concurrently. Bouts take place in a sawdust arena and only the 120 best Swiss wrestlers are invited to take part. This festival is packed to the hilt with authentic Swiss traditions and customs and well worth a visit!

The next Unspunnen Festival is taking place in 2029 – of course in Interlaken.