97th International Lauberhorn Ski Races – Alpine Skiing at its Peak

Every January, Wengen becomes the epicentre of world-class ski racing when it hosts the International Lauberhorn Races. For three days, the top alpine ski racers on the planet compete on one of the most challenging and iconic courses in the FIS World Cup circuit, while the village turns into a lively festival for fans and visitors alike.

Event overview

Dates: 15 to 17 January 2027. Now in its 97th edition, the Lauberhorn Races have been held annually since 1930. The programme typically includes a Super-G, the famous Downhill and a Slalom spread across the three race days, with a training day earlier in the week. The Lauberhorn Downhill is the longest on the World Cup circuit at about 4.5 km, with racers reaching speeds up to 160 km/h and tackling legendary sections like the Hundschopf jump and the Kernen-S. The finish area in Innerwengen and the slopeside spectator zones draw tens of thousands of fans each year.

What to expect

During race week, Wengen is in full celebration mode. Visitors will find big screens in the village, pop-up food stalls, live music and apres-ski parties. On race days, the atmosphere is electric. Cowbells ring, flags wave and cheers echo along the course. The finish area offers close-up views of the racers, while higher up the mountain, fans gather at popular spots to watch the action and enjoy panoramic alpine views. The energy is infectious, and even non-skiing visitors find themselves swept up in the spectacle.

Insider tips for visitors

• Accommodation: Book your room and race tickets well in advance. This is Wengen's busiest week of the winter and availability disappears quickly.
• Clothing: Wear warm, layered clothing and sturdy winter boots for standing outdoors. Temperatures at altitude can be significantly colder than in the village, so bring a hat, gloves and a windproof jacket.
• Start area access: If you want to see the start area, head up early to Kleine Scheidegg by train. The journey is scenic and sets the tone for the day.
• Finish area: Arrive before racing begins to secure a good vantage point. The atmosphere builds as each racer crosses the finish line, and the best spots fill up fast.
• Weather and schedule: Keep an eye on the weather and course updates. Alpine conditions can affect the schedule, and races are occasionally postponed or reordered.

Combine with other activities in Wengen

When not at the races, take advantage of Wengen's direct access to the Jungfrau Ski Region. Ski or snowboard on the Mannlichen and Kleine Scheidegg slopes, enjoy a winter hike to Wengernalp or relax in the hotel spa before heading out to the evening festivities in the village. Winter hiking trails are well maintained and offer a peaceful contrast to the buzz of race week. Many guests find that alternating between race-day excitement and quieter mountain pursuits makes for a perfectly balanced holiday.

Practical information

• Dates: 15 to 17 January 2027
• Location: Wengen and Innerwengen, with access to viewing areas via the Wengernalp Railway and ski lifts
• Tickets: Standing areas in the village are free. Tickets are required for certain finish area zones and hospitality areas and are available from the official Lauberhorn race organisers.
• Access: Wengen is car-free. Arrive via train from Lauterbrunnen. On race days, expect high passenger numbers on the trains and plan extra travel time.

Getting there from Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn

From Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn, it is about a five-minute walk to the Wengen railway station. From there, take the Wengernalp Railway uphill toward Kleine Scheidegg, stopping at Innerwengen for the finish area or continuing higher for slopeside viewing points. If you prefer to watch from the village big screens, the main square is just steps from the hotel. After a thrilling day of racing, you can stroll back to the hotel in minutes, warm up with a drink and recount the day's highlights before heading out again for the evening celebrations.