Good to know
Good to Know
- White Turf and Snow Polo are the signature winter events drawing international high-society crowds; book accommodations months in advance if planning to attend.
- Chalandamarz is an authentic local tradition, not a tourist spectacle—participation is genuine and community-focused, making it a culturally immersive experience.
- The St. Moritz Gourmet Festival moved to summer (August) starting in 2026 after traditionally being held in January/February, offering a distinct summer-season culinary anchor.
- Weather-dependent alpine events may be rescheduled on short notice if forecasts look unfavorable; confirm dates with local tourism before traveling.
- Many signature events (polo, White Turf, Gourmet Festival) cater to luxury clientele; expect high costs for accommodations and dining during event weekends.
Events
White Turf
- Month
- February
- Dates 2026
- February 7, 14, 21 (Family Days); February 8, 15, 22 (Racing Days)
- First Held
- 1907
- Description
- Prestigious equestrian event on frozen Lake St. Moritz featuring horse racing, skijoring (skiers pulled by horses), and trotting races. Includes gourmet catering, live music, and art exhibitions.
- Access Notes
- Spectators can watch from grandstand seating with faux fur throws provided. Admission pricing not specified in sources.
Snow Polo World Cup (Cartier Trophy)
- Month
- Late January
- Dates 2026
- Last weekend of January 2026 (41st edition)
- First Held
- 1985
- Description
- The world's only high-goal polo tournament on snow, held on frozen Lake St. Moritz. Six international teams of four players compete. Distinguished by unique combination of luxury sport, tradition, and alpine setting.
- Access Notes
- Major spectator event drawing crowds and high-society attendance. VIP and standard seating available. Pricing not specified in sources.
Chalandamarz
- Month
- March
- Dates 2026
- Sunday, March 1, 2026 starting at 10:30 from Plaza da Scoula in St. Moritz center
- First Held
- Ancient Roman times (adapted in modern form)
- Description
- Ancient Romansh tradition marking the symbolic end of winter. Community parade with participants wearing traditional costumes, ringing large cowbells (Plumpas), and processing through town. Rooted in Roman calendar tradition celebrating spring renewal.
- Access Notes
- Free public event. Open to all community members and visitors. Procession also visible in neighboring Pontresina at 15:30.
St. Moritz Gourmet Festival
- Month
- August
- Dates 2026
- August 25-30, 2026
- First Held
- 1994
- Description
- Prestigious multi-day culinary event featuring world-renowned Michelin-starred chefs. Includes exclusive dinners, opening kitchen parties at Badrutt's Palace Hotel, gourmet safaris between hotel restaurants, and chef's tables. Focus on both international and regional Alpine cuisine.
- Access Notes
- Exclusive, reservation-required culinary events. Pricing varies by event; specific ticket costs not publicly listed in standard sources. Coordination through official gourmet festival website required.
Key Events
- Opening Kitchen Party (August 25) at Badrutt's Palace
- Gourmet Safaris (August 26-28) with small group multi-course dining across hotels
- St. Moritz Garden Party (August 29) at Suvretta House with live cooking stations
Engadin Ski Marathon
- Month
- March
- Dates 2026
- March 14, 2026 (Sunday morning start)
- First Held
- More than half a century ago
- Description
- World's second-largest cross-country skiing event. 42 km race route starting in Maloja, passing through Pontresina, ending in S-chanf. Over 14,000 participants annually from 60+ nations.
- Access Notes
- Mass participation event. Registration required to compete. Spectators can watch along the route free of charge.
I.C.E. St. Moritz (International Concours of Elegance)
- Month
- January-February
- Dates 2026
- January 30-31, 2026
- Description
- Winter vintage and classic car showcase held on frozen Lake St. Moritz. Features inspection by jury, parade of vehicles, contemporary cars show, and free laps on the ice for participants.
- Access Notes
- Free admission to exhibitions and races. Open to public with designated drivers' lounge for participants.
St. Moritz Summer Market
- Month
- Summer
- Description
- Summer market in St. Moritz center offering regional delicacies, drinks, and handmade artisanal products from local producers.
- Access Notes
- Free public market event. Located in central St. Moritz.
AI-generated estimateData refreshed July 2026
Sources cited for this category
These are the sources cited in this signature annual events research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.
More About St. Moritz
Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.