Santa Claus Visit in Grindelwald – A Festive Family Tradition

Each December, Grindelwald welcomes Santa Claus, known in Switzerland as Samichlous, for an afternoon of festive cheer. This family-friendly event brings the magic of the holiday season to life against the backdrop of the Eiger and the snowy Bernese Alps.

Event Overview

Date: 6 December 2025
The celebration begins in the late afternoon at the Grindelwald Congress Hall, where Santa arrives accompanied by Schmutzli, his traditional helper, and a pair of donkeys. Together with families and children, they parade through the village to the Eiger North Face Square. There, Santa distributes treats to children, and visitors can enjoy warm drinks and snacks from seasonal stalls.

What to Expect

The event is designed with children in mind but is just as enjoyable for adults who want to experience Swiss festive traditions. The procession is small and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to take photos. The village is decorated for the holidays, and the warm drinks on offer help take the chill off the alpine air.

Insider Tips for Visitors

• Dress warmly as most of the event takes place outdoors
• Arrive in Grindelwald a little early to find a good spot for viewing the procession
• Bring a small bag for children to collect their treats from Santa
• Combine the visit with an afternoon exploring Grindelwald’s winter shops and cafés

Combine with Other Activities in the Jungfrau Region

Spend the day skiing or sledging in Grindelwald before the event, or take a winter walk to the Gletscherschlucht (Glacier Gorge) for an impressive icy landscape. Early December often offers quieter slopes and trails.

Practical Information

Date: 6 December 2025
Location: Grindelwald Congress Hall to Eiger North Face Square
Tickets: Free event, open to the public
Access: All activities are in the centre of Grindelwald, within easy walking distance from the train station

How to Get There from Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn

From Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn, walk five minutes to Wengen railway station. Take the Wengernalp Railway down to Lauterbrunnen, then connect to the Bernese Oberland Railway via Zweilütschinen to reach Grindelwald. From Grindelwald station, it’s about a five-minute walk to the Congress Hall. The full journey takes around one hour each way.

‍