L’Escalade is a great celebration in old town Geneva each mid-December with marches, parades, battle reenactments, cultural events, mulled wine, and chocolates perfect for memorable photos.
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.
L’Escalade in Genève
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.
- In 2025, L’Escalade is celebrated on the weekend from 6 to 7 December 2025.
- See also L’Escalade Festival and Celebrations in Geneva for more details on this popular event.
Photos of l’Escalade Celebrations in Geneva
L’Escalade is a perfect photo opportunity with crowds, vibrant colors, action, and a lot of emotion. It is a rare chance to see the Genevois, as they rarely present themselves during the rest of the year. Most of the action is in the old town, especially on the square in front of St Pierre cathedral and on the nearby bastions overlooking the large Parc des Bastions. Free brochures are available in English with details of events and a map of the march route. All events are free.
→ See Flickr for more photos of the L’Escalade celebrations in Genève and L’Escalade Festival and Celebrations in Geneva for more details on this popular event.