We are finally coming out of winter and spring has arrived in Geneva! This really is a tale of two cities: with the cosy feeling of winter with skiing and fondue being replaced by the summer’s almost-Mediterranean air calling to the city and everyone in it to enjoy the warmer weather. There are at least 10 festivals throughout the summer, with so many activities to enjoy in Geneva: from bike rides around the various wineries and vineyards close by, to listening to the live open-air music around the city (Ecoutes au Vert), to enjoying the boat regatta on the lake. The perennial Pre-Fêtes and Fêtes de Genéve attract up to 2 million visitors per year, which is staggering when you think this is a city with a population of roughly 200,000! To quote Steinbeck: “What is the warmth of summer without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” With that in mind, here are 10 ideas of what to do in Geneva over the next few months:
1) April 24th - May 14th: We start at Plainpalais with the Circus Nock, which hold 2 shows per day for all the family to enjoy. Tickets can be purchased through ticketcorner.ch or directly at the entrance.
2) Saturday May 2nd: We cannot mention summer events without the yearly Geneva Marathon, which is on Saturday 2nd May and starts at 8am and finishes around 11.30am.
3) Saturday May 30th (10am-6pm): Day of Open Wineries (Cantonal). All wineries throughout the Canton of Geneva open their doors to the public with a 5 CHF cover charge, which allows you to imbibe in all participating wineries.
4) May 7th - 17th: the Geneva Mapping Festival, focusing on audio-visual art and digital culture, begins at the Center of Contemporary Arts.
5) June-July: Ecoutes au Vert (Listening on the Green) which happens throughout these months in various green spaces throughout the city with live music events.
6) June 12th-14th: Sailing Regatta on the lake.
7) June 19th-21st: Fête de la Musique. Live bands and musicians from all over the world playing at various street venues throughout the city.
8) July 16th-29th: is the "Pre-Fêtes de Genéve" at the English Garden beside the lake, with live music, food and beverages and lots of dancing.
9) July 30th - August 9th - the official Fêtes de Genéve, which draw an average of 2 million visitors each year and has music, food and drink, dancing and fireworks on the closing night.
10) August 28th - September 12th - Festival de Bâtie, located at the Bâtie Park which have musical, artistic and theatrical events situated in this lovely space.
Photo credit: Genève via photopin (license)
