Bern's Iconic Carnival Faces Uncertain Future Amid Declining Crowds
The Bernese Carnival will reach its peak this Saturday with the grand parade through the city. Known locally as Bärner Fasnacht, the three-day celebration has long been a cultural highlight, but organisers now face challenges in keeping the tradition alive. This year's event features 36 Guggenmusik bands and costume groups, yet concerns about declining participation remain.
The festivities began on Thursday with the Bear Liberation ceremony, marking the official start of the carnival. The afternoon parade on Saturday will be led by the Carnival Bear, the event's iconic symbol. Following the procession, Guggenmusik brass bands will take the stage at Bundesplatz, with alleyway parties continuing late into the night in the Old Town's taverns.
This year's carnival poster, designed by artist Dario Pedro Lischetti, showcases a lively scene featuring the Carnival Bear and a jester. Despite the vibrant displays, the Bärner Fasnacht Association has reported a drop in performers, visitors, and young recruits. Michelle Uetz, the association's president, points to difficulties in attracting new members and a lack of public awareness about the event.
Recent reports from February 2026 highlight a downward trend, with fewer Guggenmusiken, volunteers, and attendees than in previous years. In response, organisers are exploring ways to scale back the programme while preserving the carnival's spirit. The event will conclude late on Sunday night, wrapping up another year of tradition amid growing uncertainty about its future.
The Bernese Carnival remains a beloved tradition, but its future depends on addressing declining participation. Organisers are now weighing adjustments to ensure the event's survival. The parade and performances this weekend will proceed as planned, but changes may lie ahead for upcoming editions.
