Overview

In the heart of the town, at the foot of Monte Rosa, a special event recalls the Walser culture of these areas and the ancient links with the German-speaking lands.

During the period of festivities for the patron Saint John, the Bierfest brings to Gressoney-Saint-Jean the famous beer produced in the brewery of Baron Beck Peccoz, a resident of Gressoney who emigrated many years ago to the town of Kühbach, in Germany.

Approximately 15,000 litres of lager arrive in Gressoney-Saint-Jean in a single large barrel, in order to preserve its inherent qualities, and it is opened during the day on which the celebrations begin.

The beer festival also features gastronomy, thanks to an attentive catering service. Every evening, the dinners in the pavilion are entertained by folk music, as well as by classics and international music hits.

The religious celebrations begin on the evening of 23 June, with the fires of San Giovanni (Saint-Jean or Sankt Johanz): all the local districts, one by one, light huge bonfires and the night is filled with evocative lights while locals and visitors celebrate with typical snacks called "spisie".

On 24 June, the Patron's feast day, a scenic procession takes place after mass, with the participants dressed in beautiful traditional Walser costumes, while the conscripts, youth approaching adulthood, carry the statue of the saint. A special blessing is then given to the children, which is still deeply appreciated today.