Glarus: Swiss Federal Wrestling Festival

A unique event in the heart of Switzerland

The Swiss Federal Wrestling Festival and Alpine Games 2025 takes place from August 29 to 31 in Mollis, in the canton of Glarus. This event, held every three years, is considered one of the largest popular gatherings in the country. Featuring wrestling matches, stone throwing, yodeling, and a friendly atmosphere, the festival attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators from all over Switzerland each year.

Places to visit in Switzerland

Figures that make your head spin

274 wrestlers compete in the arena. A giant, 56,500-seat, fully removable arena becomes the world's largest temporary stadium for a few days. 350,000 visitors are expected over the weekend, more than 15 times the population of the host municipality. The site covers 70 hectares with tents, stalls, and refreshment areas. Volunteers are at the heart of the organization: more than 6,000 people are involved, and 200 committee members are responsible.

Exceptional logistics

Building such a temporary village requires a titanic effort. More than 37 tons of sawdust are transported for the seven rounds of wrestling, some by helicopter to preserve the grounds.

The catering is equally impressive: nearly 450,000 sausages, 270,000 liters of beer, 24,000 liters of wine and 125,000 coffees will be consumed by visitors.

Unusual anecdotes that will mark the 2025 edition

A 20-meter-tall giant bull, named Max, was designed by more than 500 apprentices from 220 companies. It symbolizes the strength and unity of the event. Faced with a lack of volunteers, refugees participated in the construction of the infrastructure, an initiative praised for its inclusive and supportive nature. Unlike previous editions, the Patrouille Suisse will not be performing an air show this year, a decision that surprised many fans.

Swiss wrestling: more than a sport, a national symbol

The fights take place in sawdust, with simple but demanding rules: knock your opponent down while always keeping one hand on their wrestling pants. Beyond the sport, the Federal Festival embodies a spirit of camaraderie, respect, and traditions deeply rooted in Swiss culture.

Conclusion: a weekend that will remain etched in your memory

The FFLS 2025 in Mollis goes beyond sporting activities. It brings together generations around a shared heritage and projects Switzerland into an incomparable festive atmosphere. Between records, unusual anecdotes, and a popular atmosphere, the event confirms its status as a true unofficial national holiday.