Menuhin Festival Gstaad 2026
16th July – 5th September 2026
Founded by legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin in 1957, the Menuhin Festival Gstaad has grown into one of Europe’s most prestigious classical music festivals. The 2026 edition is particularly special as it celebrates the festival’s 70th anniversary, with more than 60 concerts (and over 75 performances and events across the season), world-renowned orchestras, celebrated soloists and beautiful venues throughout Gstaad and the Saanenland. The 2026 theme is “Family Matters”, celebrating friendship, mentorship and musical connections across generations. New additions include The Summit, an interdisciplinary forum exploring music, culture and society, plus a new film series and guided “President’s Hikes” combining Alpine walks with musical encounters.
Daniel Hope, Festival Director
Menuhin Festival Gstaad: One of Switzerland’s Finest Classical Music Festivals
Every summer, the beautiful Alpine village of Gstaad becomes the centre of the classical music world as internationally acclaimed musicians perform against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Running from 16th July to 5th September 2026, the 70th Menuhin Festival Gstaad promises another unforgettable season of world-class performances, intimate concerts and extraordinary musical experiences.
Gabriela Montero at Menuhin Festival Gstaad
When we visited we were lucky enough to see two concerts, one by pianist Gabriela Montero and one by the Broman Family.
Broman Family at Menuhin Festival Gstaad
Whether you’re a lifelong classical music enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience during your Swiss holiday, this festival is one of the highlights of the Swiss summer calendar.
A Festival Founded by a Musical Legend
The festival was established in 1957 by legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin, who fell in love with the peaceful surroundings of Gstaad and made it his home. His vision was simple: to create a place where outstanding musicians could perform in an intimate setting surrounded by nature. Nearly 70 years later, that vision continues to thrive, attracting some of the world’s greatest orchestras, conductors and soloists each summer.
Celebrating 70 Years in 2026
The 2026 festival marks an important milestone as it celebrates its 70th anniversary. This year’s theme, Family Matters, explores the relationships that shape music: between teachers and students, friends, families and artistic collaborators.
Festival director Daniel Hope has curated a programme that combines legendary performers with exciting young talent.
A Spectacular Programme
There is so much to enjoy:
- Symphony orchestra concerts
- Chamber music performances
- Solo recitals
- Opera performances
- Family concerts
- Masterclasses
- Talks and discussions
- Film screenings
- Outdoor musical experiences
More than 60 concerts take place across the seven-week festival, with performances held in churches, the Festival Tent and other beautiful venues throughout the Saanenland and the Pays-d’Enhaut.
World-Class Artists
Each year the festival welcomes many of the biggest names in classical music.
Jaap van Zweden ©Raphael Faux
The 2026 programme features internationally acclaimed orchestras, celebrated conductors and award-winning soloists, including appearances by:
- Daniel Hope
- Pinchas Zukerman
- Khatia Buniatishvili
- Daniil Trifonov
- Benjamin Bernheim
Leading orchestras appearing this year include the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Budapest Festival Orchestra.
Beautiful Venues
Part of the festival’s magic lies in its setting.
Concerts take place in historic Alpine churches in villages including Saanen, Rougemont, Lauenen, Gsteig and Zweisimmen, as well as in the impressive Festival Tent in Gstaad.
Many visitors say the combination of exceptional acoustics and mountain scenery makes these concerts unlike any other in Europe.
New for 2026
The anniversary year introduces several exciting additions:
- The Summit, bringing together speakers from culture, business and society.
- A new film programme exploring Yedhudi Menuhin’s legacy through cinema.
- President’s Hikes, combining scenic walks with musical performances and conversations.
These additions broaden the festival beyond concerts alone, making it an even richer cultural experience.
Tips for your Trip
If you’re planning a visit:
- Book tickets well in advance for headline concerts.
- Stay several nights to experience different venues.
- Combine concerts with hiking or exploring the Bernese Oberland.
- Travel by train where possible.
- Allow time to discover Gstaad’s boutiques, cafés and mountain restaurants.
Why Visit?
The Menuhin Festival isn’t simply a concert series. It’s a celebration of music, friendship and creativity in one of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain regions. Whether you’re enjoying an intimate recital in a centuries-old church or listening to a full orchestra beneath the Festival Tent, every performance reflects Yehudi Menuhin’s original vision of bringing people together through music.
For anyone visiting Switzerland in summer, it is undoubtedly one of the country’s finest cultural experiences.
FAQ
When is the Menuhin Festival Gstaad?
From 16th July until 5th September 2026.
Where is it held?
Mainly in Gstaad and throughout the Saanenland in the Bernese Oberland.
Who founded the festival?
Legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin founded it in 1957.
How many concerts are there?
More than 60 concerts across seven weeks, alongside additional talks, films and special events.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many concerts are perfect for those new to classical music.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available via the official festival website.
Menuhin Festival Gstaad 2026
When: 16th July – 5th September 2026
Where: Various locations in Gstaad
Website: Visit the website here for more information.
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