L’Escalade is a great celebration in old town Geneva each mid-December with marches, parades, battle reenactments, cultural events, mulled wine, and chocolates.
L’Escalade is a Genevan festival held each mid-December to commemorate a famous victory of Geneva over the Dukes of Savoy. On December 12, 1602, the Savoyards attempted to invade the free city of Genève through an escalade by stealth in the early morning hours. The Savoyards were spotted, the alarm raised, a battle royal ended with a famous victory for Geneva.
Each mid-December, the three-day l’Escalade is celebrated in Geneva through a grand parade, battle reenactments, cultural events, and music. Visitors are fortified by lots of mulled wine and chocolate. It is a great event for families and children of all ages.
NOTE: In 2020 the Escalade in Geneva will not take place in any form!
- See also L’Escalade Festival and Celebrations in Geneva for more details on this popular event.
© Escalade Photos by Henk Bekker
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