Two years before the festival

Altstätten, September 10, 2025

‍TheFederal Folk Music Festival (EVMF) from September 9 to 12, 2027 in Altstätten in the St.Gallen Rhine Valley is taking shape. It made its first public appearance at the Northeast Switzerland Yodelling Festival (NOSJF) 2025. And right in the middle of the atmospheric streets of Altstätt's old town, where the yodelling festival took place. The visible path towards 2027 has thus begun. Two years before the major national event, preparations are now in full swing. ‍

For four days in the fall of 2027, the historic old town will be transformed into a lively festival site. The Städtli offers ideal conditions for a federal association festival. The narrow streets, the squares and the hosts create an ambience that is perfect for a festival of traditional and new folk music. Music, living customs and genuine hospitality come together here. Anyone who attended the NOSJF 2025 in Altstätten was able to experience how the town with its unique backdrop was transformed into one big festival mile. This experience is set to become even more diverse and colorful in 2027.‍

Modern appearance in historic surroundings ‍

The online presence is now also available at www.altstaetten27.ch. Interested parties can find up-to-date information, background information, contact details and later also the detailed program. One thing is already certain: Altstätten will become a sounding stage. Numerous stages, food trucks, pubs and marquees spread throughout the old town will provide entertainment and conviviality. Around 250 presentations and concerts are planned, as well as Stubeten in all alleyways, a gala evening of folk music, various markets and, as the highlight, the colorful parade on Sunday. Traditional sounds meet fresh, new folk music - a festival for all generations and music lovers from home and abroad. Special attention is also paid to attractions and a supporting program for children and families. ‍

Organization picks up speed‍

One year after the founding of the supporting association, the organizing committee is now taking shape: Simon Büchel and Dario Schmid (management), who have already played a leading role in the Yodelling Festival, are in charge of the project. René Lei and Philipp Färber from the Pfauendhalde chapel in Berneck share the presidency of the OC. Markus Brülisauer from Siebnen SZ is Managing Director of the Swiss Folk Music Association and actively supports the OC. Motivated and committed experts from Altstätten and the entire Rhine Valley complete the organizing committee. Only a few positions still need to be filled. The first core OC meeting is imminent - an important milestone on the way to the major national event. If you want to experience folk music in all its diversity, if you want to feel the unique atmosphere of the idyllic old town and if you are looking for real encounters, you need to make a note of September 9-12, 2027 in your diary.