February 2026 in Switzerland

February in Switzerland is where winter’s heart beats the loudest. The days are just starting to stretch a little longer, yet the snow is deep, the air crisp, and the energy—electric. It’s a month that combines peak alpine beauty with a celebratory spirit, offering visitors a perfect balance of snow-filled adventures and cultural vibrancy.

Carnival Season – A Burst of Color in the Cold: as Lent approaches, Switzerland comes alive with Fasnacht—the Swiss version of Carnival. Towns like Lucerne, Basel, and Bellinzona explode in color, music, and joyful chaos. Expect surreal costumes, Guggenmusik brass bands, lantern-lit parades, and centuries-old traditions. It’s a true winter spectacle that surprises and delights at every turn.

Romantic Winter Getaways: with Valentine’s Day in the middle of the month, February is a perfect time for couples. Picture a stay in a cozy mountain lodge, stargazing from a private hot tub, or sharing a candlelit dinner with a view of snowy peaks. Towns like Zermatt, Saanen, and Grindelwald offer intimacy wrapped in alpine charm.

Winter Sports – At Their Best - by February, ski resorts are in full swing with optimal snow conditions and a lively buzz. It’s the sweet spot: seasoned skiers, snow festivals, and exciting competitions (like the White Turf horse races on the frozen lake of St. Moritz). Try something new—night skiing, heli-skiing, or a moonlit snowshoe hike.

Wellness & Warmth: after a day out in the cold, Switzerland’s world-class thermal baths and spas offer the ultimate way to unwind. Soak in steamy outdoor pools surrounded by snow at places like Therme Vals or Bogn Engiadina—where wellness meets wilderness.

Hidden Winter Gems - February is also a great time to explore less touristy spots. Quaint villages like Mürren, Soglio, or Appenzell offer authentic Swiss culture, stunning alpine views, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds.

FEB 2-8 Children's week – Grachen

FEB 4 After Slopes Sounds SEASON END – Grindelwald

FEB 7-8 Fête du Froid, Vallée de La Brévine

FEB 7-12 Swatch Nines Snow – Grauseeli

FEB 7-16 Carnival in the Saas Valley,  Saas-Fee

FEB 7-22 White Turf – St. Moritz

FEB 12-17 Lucerne Carnival

FEB 13-17 Chur Carnival

FEB 8 Summit Sounds in the Stafelbar - Grächen

FEB 17-18 The Swiss Cyber Security Days – Bern

FEB 19-21 Bernese Carnival - Bern

FEB 20 Das Zürcher Sechseläuten

FEB 20-22 Züri-Carneval

FEB 22 Chienbäse - Liestal

FEB 23-25 Carnival in Basel

FEB 26-MAR1 Art on Ice – Zurich

FEB 28 Chalandamarz in the valley of Fex