Swiss Bell Ringers and Cowbell Players Meeting

From 21 to 23 August 2026, Schüpfen in the Bernese Seeland region will be transformed into the centre of Swiss cowbell and cowbell ringing culture. EST 2026 is the largest event of its kind in Switzerland, with over 240 cowbell ringing associations, around 3,000 participants and an expected 10,000 visitors. The focus is on living tradition, encounters and customs. Special attention is paid to the newly opened Schüpfen Culture and Adventure Trail, which brings the centuries-old tradition of cowbell ringing to life in a new way. Programme highlights include colourful parades with hundreds of cowbell ringers and cowbell groups from all over Switzerland (Saturday & Sunday), a culture and adventure trail with themed stations, market stalls, festival food, regional specialities, music, folklore, meeting zones, an open-air church service, a cowbell breakfast on Sunday and, finally, Uustrychle – the traditional sound finale to round off the event.