Festivals in Switzerland in May
3 festivals waiting for you
Curated by Sarah Pagel · Last verified 31 March 2026
Switzerland offers premium festival experiences in Alpine settings of incomparable beauty, where Swiss precision, quality, and natural splendour combine to create events that are technically flawless and visually stunning. From lakeside gatherings to mountain festivals with breathtaking Alpine backdrops, Swiss events benefit from world-class infrastructure, impeccable organisation, and settings that make every festival feel like a luxury experience in one of Europe's most beautiful countries.
While Switzerland's high costs can be challenging, festivals here deliver exceptional value in terms of quality, safety, and unforgettable locations that leverage the country's dramatic landscapes. Swiss festivals often emphasize sustainability, innovation, and artistic quality, creating events that appeal to those seeking premium experiences where cutting-edge music meets Swiss mountains, lakes, and the efficiency and beauty that make Switzerland unique.
May Festivals
Balelec Festival 2026
May 1, 2026 - May 1, 2026
Balelec Festival is a large open-air music festival in Lausanne, Switzerland, held on the EPFL campus. It is known as the largest student-organised festival in Europe, run by volunteers.
Zurich Tanzt 2026
May 7, 2026 - May 10, 2026
Zurich Tanzt is a city-wide dance festival that transforms public spaces into stages for diverse dance forms, encouraging both spectatorship and active participation. Attracting over 20,000 guests, it offers a rich program of courses, performances, film screenings, and parties for all ages and cultures.
Mapping Festival 2026
May 7, 2026 - May 17, 2026
Mapping Festival is an international event in Geneva dedicated to audiovisual art, technological innovation, and digital culture, known for transforming urban spaces with live visuals and immersive installations. It showcases avant-garde digital arts through a diverse program of performances, workshops, and electronic music, attracting both local and international artists and audiences.
Explore Festivals in Switzerland in June (16 festivals)
An independent electronic music & festival researcher with 10+ years in the global dance scene.
Last verified 31 March 2026