Overview

In the heart of the village, at the foot of Monte Rosa, the Bierfest takes place to celebrate the Walser culture of the area and its ancient ties with the German-speaking lands. During the same period as the feast of the patron saint, St. John, the Bierfest brings to Gressoney-Saint-Jean the famous beer brewed at the brewery of Baron Beck Peccoz. Around 15,000 liters of pale beer arrive in Gressoney-Saint-Jean inside a single large barrel, in order to preserve all its original characteristics. This barrel is opened on the day in which the festivities begin.

The beer festival also showcases local gastronomy, with a carefully curated dining service. Each evening, dinners in the festival pavilion are accompanied by folk music as well as international classics and hit songs. Religious celebrations begin on the evening of June 20 with the Fires of St. John (Saint-Jean or Sankt Johanz): all the hamlets light large bonfires, and the night is filled with evocative lights while people celebrate with traditional snacks called "spisie."

On June 24, the day of the Patron Saint, after the mass, a spectacular procession takes place with participants dressed in beautiful traditional Walser costumes. During the procession, the "coscritti"—young people reaching adulthood —carry the statue of the Saint. A special blessing is then given to the children, a tradition that still holds deep meaning today.