The Canton of Bern is set to host a diverse range of events throughout October 2025. Residents and visitors can look forward to a gaming festival, a traditional cheese market, and an immersive light show on Bundesplatz. These activities highlight the region's vibrant cultural scene.
Key Takeaways
- October 2025 features diverse events across Canton Bern.
- Highlights include the HeroFest for gaming and the Huttwil Cheese Market.
- Cultural shows like Rendez-vous Bundesplatz and Thuner Wasserzauber continue.
- Local markets and anniversaries offer unique experiences.
First Friday Biel: Extended Shopping and Culture
Biel's historic Old Town will host its monthly "First Friday" event on October 3, 2025. This popular tradition sees local boutiques, gourmet food stores, and antique shops extend their opening hours until 10 PM. The event begins at 6 PM.
Beyond shopping, the First Friday offers a rich cultural program. Theaters, art galleries, restaurants, and bars provide a variety of performances, exhibitions, and concerts. This creates a lively atmosphere for everyone.
Event Fact: First Friday
The First Friday initiative aims to boost local businesses and cultural institutions in Biel's Old Town. It has been a monthly fixture for several years, attracting both locals and tourists.
HeroFest Bernexpo: Gaming and Medieval Culture
The HeroFest, Switzerland's premier festival for gaming and nerd culture, returns to Bernexpo from October 3 to 5, 2025. This year, the festival introduces a new addition: the "Hero Midgard" medieval market.
Attendees can immerse themselves in a world of magic and traditional craftsmanship. The event also features live concerts, various shows, and popular cosplay competitions. It is a major gathering for fans of fantasy and digital entertainment.
"HeroFest provides a unique platform for enthusiasts to connect and celebrate their passions," a spokesperson for Bern Welcome stated.
Festival Background
The HeroFest has grown significantly since its inception, becoming a key event in the Swiss cultural calendar for gaming and fantasy communities. The introduction of Hero Midgard broadens its appeal to include historical reenactment and craft enthusiasts.
Champoz Autumn Market: Arts and Crafts
The Champoz Autumn Market, recognized as the largest arts and crafts market in French-speaking Switzerland, will take place on October 4, 2025. The market offers a full day of activities for all ages.
The program includes three live concerts, bouncy castles for children, and donkey rides. To ensure easy access, a free shuttle bus service will operate every 10 minutes between 9 AM and 6 PM, transporting visitors directly to the market entrance.
- Market Type: Arts and Crafts
- Date: October 4, 2025
- Location: Champoz
- Special Feature: Free shuttle bus service
Huttwil Cheese Market: A Culinary Experience
The 19th annual Huttwil Cheese Market is scheduled for October 4 and 5, 2025. This event is a paradise for cheese lovers, featuring products from over 60 producers across Switzerland. The market is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Visitors can enjoy numerous tasting opportunities, live music, and demonstrations of traditional crafts. The event operates under the "Das Beste der Region" (The Best of the Region) quality seal, ensuring authentic regional products.
Market Statistics: Huttwil Cheese Market
With over 60 producers, the Huttwil Cheese Market offers one of the most comprehensive selections of Swiss cheeses available at a single event. It highlights the rich dairy traditions of the region.
Rendez-vous Bundesplatz: Audiovisual Spectacle
The "Rendez-vous Bundesplatz" audiovisual show will once again transform Bern's Parliament Square, starting from October 18, 2025. This free event enchants audiences annually with its stunning projections.
The 2025 edition will take visitors on an adventurous journey around the world. The show aims to explore the fascination of the planet's cultural diversity. It features a varied musical backdrop from different cultures and historical periods. The performances are expected to draw large crowds, as in previous years.
Alpinschule Adelboden Kandersteg Anniversary
The Alpinschule Adelboden Kandersteg celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025. Additionally, the Adventure Park Adelboden marks its 20th year. A joint celebration is planned for October 25 and 26, 2025, in Adelboden.
The anniversary weekend includes workshops for outdoor enthusiasts and an inspiring lecture by Peter von Känel. Guests can also enjoy casual gatherings with local food and drinks. This event is ideal for those interested in alpine sports and nature.
Anniversary Highlights
The Alpinschule Adelboden Kandersteg has been a leading institution for alpine training for three decades. The Adventure Park Adelboden has provided outdoor thrills for two decades, making these milestones significant for the region's tourism and recreation sector.
Thuner Wasserzauber: Water and Light Show in Thun
The "Thuner Wasserzauber" (Thun Water Magic) show continues to captivate audiences until October 26, 2025. This spectacular event combines light, music, and magic in the heart of Thun.
Every evening, the Aare basin in front of the Freienhof restaurant transforms into an open-air stage. Two distinct shows, "Jukebox" and "4 Jahreszeiten" (Four Seasons), are presented nightly at 7:30 PM and 9:15 PM. Admission is free, and performances proceed regardless of weather conditions. This event offers a magical experience for visitors of all ages.