Trade fairs & festivals

Tschäggättä in the Lötschental

12 and 14 February 2026

The remoteness of the Lötschental valley has been the source of numerous legends and myths. Wild creatures roamed through the history of the Lötschental valley, leaving their mark behind. They are considered to be the origin of the Tschäggättä custom, which is still celebrated today. The Tschäggättä appear in the period between Candlemas and Gigiszischtag.

The Tschäggättä wear masks made of Swiss stone pine wood, sheep or goat skins over their shoulders, and cowbells around their waists. They do not normally form processions or organized groups. They only get up to mischief together on two occasions: at the traditional Tschäggättu-Loif from Wiler to Ferden and the big Lötschental carnival procession in Wiler.

Tschäggättu procession & carnival parade

Thursday, 12 February 2026
Tschäggättä-Loif from Wiler to Ferden

Every year on Shrove Thursday, the Tschäggättä are gathered by the shepherds at nightfall. Then they set off together and walk from Wiler to Ferden.

Around 21.00 hours: Departure from Wiler

Saturday, 14 February 2026
Big carnival parade in Wiler

The traditional Lötschental carnival parade in Wiler marks the end of the Tschäggättä. Guggen music, carnival groups on foot and on floats and various food stalls await you. The prize-giving for the three most beautiful Tschäggättä and carnival groups will start at 18.00 hours.

14.30 hours: The starting signal is given in Dorfstrasse in Wiler

«Tschäggättä Living traditions in the Lötschental» (Flyer)

Mask carving

The larva (wooden mask)

Nothing is known about the origin of the wooden masks in the Lötschental. The custom probably originated a few centuries ago. Since the 19th century at the latest, the carved wooden mask has been part of the Tschäggätta's clothing. Learn how to carve masks under expert guidance and make your own larva.

For groups from 5 to 20 people, individual bookings are possible on request.
Registration: Lötschental Tourist Office: Tel. +41 27 938 88 88

How to get there

From Bern, the RegioExpress will take you directly to Goppenstein in just 70 minutes. From there, you can continue by post bus to Wiler in the Lötschental.