Sichlete (Bern Harvest Festival)Sichlete

The Sichlete is Bern’s traditional mid-September harvest festival held on Bundesplatz in front of the Parliament. Organized by the Bernese Farmers’ Association, it features Alpine cattle brought into the city, displays of farm products from six regions, musical performances by local ‘treichler’ (bell ringers), and regional food and wine 1 2. The event highlights gratitude for the harvest season and showcases rural traditions in the urban square.

Dating from the late 20th century, the Sichlete brings the alpine pastoral atmosphere to Bern’s center. It coincides with the national Thanksgiving (Eidgenössischer Dank-, Buss- und Bettag) period, blending urban and rural traditions. Farmers from across the canton parade livestock (cows with yokes) across Kornhausbrücke to the plaza, symbolizing the connection between city and countryside. Local folk music, artisan goods, and culinary specialties create an authentic market festival environment 1 2.