- Where: Zermatt, Switzerland
- When: April 8th to 12th, 2025
- Website: Zermatt Unplugged
If you look out onto the snow-dusted slopes of Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most formidable skiing hotspots, you wouldn’t necessarily expect the reverberating melodies of live acoustic music.
However, every April this incredibly picturesque and tranquil town is enveloped in an atmosphere of pulsating rhythms and foot-tapping melodies – a sensation courtesy of the highly-acclaimed Zermatt Unplugged music festival.
Zermatt Unplugged, now a prestigious event in the international calendar, is a unique treat for music and skiing lovers alike. Uniting these seemingly distant worlds, the festival respects the core essence of both activities by emphasizing authenticity and purity – qualities wonderfully embodied in acoustic music and the untouched snow of Alpine slopes.
Started in 2007, the festival has gained momentum, attracting widespread attention from audiences and musicians worldwide. Over five days in April, leading and emerging artists from all genres take a stripped-back approach, shedding synthesized sounds and large band formations, and instead, returning to the roots of their craftsmanship – pure and unplugged. The result is an intimate musical experience, unlike any other set against the backdrop of the majestic Matterhorn.
During the festival, the otherwise serene town of Zermatt throbs with energy. A variety of venues, from traditional wooden chalets, taverns and gourmet restaurants to remarkable outdoor stages and even lofty mountain huts, host over 70 concerts.
These venues disperse throughout the town and along the snow-covered slopes, allowing visitors to curate their own musical journey interspersed with exhilarating skiing.
It’s not merely about the music and skiing, though. Zermatt Unplugged offers an array of cultural experiences — from food and wine tastings to art workshops and wellness sessions. This well-rounded approach makes sure that the festival’s allure reaches beyond the world of musicians and skiers, welcoming a broad audience steeped in diverse interests.
Zermatt Unplugged is also a celebration of a sustainable approach to festivals. By keeping the event ‘unplugged’, the festival reduces energy consumption, championing the idea that great entertainment and respect for our environment are not mutually exclusive.
Amidst the careful blend of music, outdoor activities, good food, and camaraderie, Zermatt Unplugged stands out by adding unique layers of memories to your stay at the ski resort. It redefines the typical ski holiday by offering a sensory feast and an unforgettable cultural experience.
Whether you’re a music aficionado chasing raw, unplugged performances, or a ski enthusiast looking to switch up your regular trips, or a cultural connoisseur eager to explore new dimensions, Zermatt Unplugged caters to all needs.
Mark your calendars today for April 9 – 13, 2024, and head to Zermatt, Switzerland. Prepare to immerse yourself in a remarkable celebration of music, nature, and companionship, with the stunning backdrop of the illustrious Matterhorn carving the rhythm to your ski strokes and the musical beats of your incredible Swiss adventure.
Zermatt Unplugged is about disconnecting from the chaotic digital world, plunging into enchanting acoustic melodies, and connecting personally with the music, people, and the pristine environment. It’s more than a festival; it’s a retreat interspersed with breathtaking views, melodic beats, and heart-pumping ski runs. Truly, a unique experience not to be missed.