Traditions in Canton Valais

You are probably already familiar with the Valais coat of arms – a red and white flag with 13 stars. The red background with the white stars on the right; the white background with the red stars on the left. The stars in the middle are two-toned. These two colours (formerly red and silver) are the official colours of the Bishop of Sion. The 13 stars represent the canton’s 13 districts.

You will encounter the cantonal flag everywhere you go. At the traditional cow fights, the village festivals and at the autumn processions when the cattle herds return from their summer grazing on the alps. The inhabitants of canton Valais also have a love of music. Around 2000 members are currently active in folklore associations and bands, and customs and traditions are very much a part of life here.

With a little luck, your seminar might even coincide with one of these traditional events.