Parade of the Crowned Cows (Défilé des Réines)
Spectators line the route to watch and photograph the elaborately adorned cows.
~11:00
Ayer Cow Descent
Désalpe d'Ayer
Ayer, Switzerland
Sep 19, 2026Expected
Each mid-September, the village of Ayer welcomes its cattle down from the high pastures with the Désalpe. The decorated 'queen' cows return from the summer alps amid folk music and food stalls, in a celebration that marks the end of grazing in the Val d'Anniviers.
Media proof note
The Ayer Cow Descent record is date-tracked, but stronger reviewed Field Guide media would make it easier to inspect.
About media standardsKey moments
Sep 20
Cows on Display at Patinoire
Visitors can visit the ice rink to view and pet the cows and sample Alpine cheese.
~11:30
Lancer de la Pierre de Nava (Stone-throwing Contest)
Attendees watch or participate in this folk sport, with cheese prizes awarded to top throwers.
~14:30
Where it happens
Patinoire naturelle d'Ayer
Ayer, Switzerland
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Comfortable outdoor clothing (festival is partly outside)
Read the local rhythm
Basic French for announcements
Keep the visit respectful
Interest in rural Alpine culture
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: moderate.
Tickets
Free events are available.
LOCAL COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Ayer Cow Descent
Désalpe d'Ayer
Ayer, Switzerland
Each mid-September, the village of Ayer welcomes its cattle down from the high pastures with the Désalpe. The decorated 'queen' cows return from the summer alps amid folk music and food stalls, in a celebration that marks the end of grazing in the Val d'Anniviers.
Media pendingMedia proof still incomplete
Under the radarStill under the radar
Sep 19, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Désalpe traditions mark the end of summer grazing in Swiss Alps. In Ayer, this event replaces historical alpine farm work with a communal celebration of pastoral life. Villagers dress in traditional attire and honor the herding heritage, reflecting the importance of mountain farming in Valaisine identity.
Key moments to know
Sep 203 moments
Sep 20~11:00Expected
Parade of the Crowned Cows (Défilé des Réines)
Spectators line the route to watch and photograph the elaborately adorned cows.
Sep 20~11:30Expected
Cows on Display at Patinoire
Visitors can visit the ice rink to view and pet the cows and sample Alpine cheese.
Sep 20~14:30Expected
Lancer de la Pierre de Nava (Stone-throwing Contest)
Attendees watch or participate in this folk sport, with cheese prizes awarded to top throwers.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Comfortable outdoor clothing (festival is partly outside)
Read the local rhythm
Basic French for announcements
Keep the visit respectful
Interest in rural Alpine culture
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Sep 19, 2026
Estimated
City / Area
Ayer
Ayer (Val d'Anniviers, Valais)
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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