Originally, the return from the alpine pastures celebrates the homecoming of the herds from their summer grazing grounds where they have spent the summer months.
At the beginning of June, the transhumance of dairy cows starts in Haute-Savoie. For five months, they graze on the lush grass of mountain pastures to produce, among other things, reblochon cheese. This event is a true tradition for breeders who equip their animals with bells during the climb up.
In October, the herds return to the farms—this is the return from the alpine pastures. This event has been celebrated every year since 1973 in Annecy with the folkloric festival of the Retour des Alpages.
This popular festival takes place on the second Saturday of October in the city center of Annecy.
From the morning, visitors can discover stands showcasing traditional crafts, artisans, producers, and breeders. Surrounded by an old-world atmosphere, Savoyard dishes are highlighted. At the many food stands, you’ll find diots in white wine, tartiflette, polenta, as well as bugnes and bidoyon to enjoy without moderation! All day long, numerous folk groups and traditional musicians (Alpine horns, accordion, harmonica) entertain the stages and invite spectators to sing and dance. In the early afternoon, more than 600 animals parade, accompanied by shepherds and folk groups. Cows (Tarine, Abondance, Montbéliarde), sheep, goats, horses, donkeys, and geese take center stage, adorned in their finest regalia. During this great parade, the folk groups, musicians, and dancers accompany the animals for the greatest enjoyment of both children and adults!
Before leaving, visitors can purchase the Retour des Alpages poster, a true work of art created each year by a local artist—a prized item that some collectors have held onto for 50 years!
Organizing this event, which attracts between 80,000 and 100,000 visitors every year, is Annecy Traditions, an association of 80 dedicated and committed volunteers, deeply involved in passing on this living heritage, which is at the heart of Haute-Savoie’s identity. Drawing on history and traditions, Annecy Traditions organizes the Retour des Alpages while also focusing on the present and the future—highlighting the women and men who live and work on this land and who are its proud ambassadors.
Don’t miss this event!
