When autumn evenings grow darker, Switzerland lights up with one of its most magical family traditions — the Räbeliechtli parades.

Children carve turnips into glowing lanterns, adding candles or LED lights inside, and proudly walk through their villages after sunset. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, craftsmanship, and nighttime wonder — a memory every child treasures and every parent loves to relive.

The highlight of the season is the Räbechilbi in Richterswil, Switzerland’s most famous turnip festival. With hundreds of beautifully carved lanterns, live music, and a spectacular parade through the village, it transforms the lakeside into a sea of light.

The main parade takes place on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM — right next to the train station, easy to reach by S-Bahn S2 or S8. Arrive early to explore the market stalls and soak in the festival atmosphere.

Getting There

Take the S2 or S8 to Richterswil (the parade begins right at the station).
Extra trains and stops will run for the event.
No parking in the village — use public transport only.
A festival badge (CHF 10) is required for everyone aged 16+.
No strollers or dogs during the parade.

Family Tips

Arrive around 3:30 PM to enjoy the market and music before the crowds.
After the parade, take a stroll through the illuminated village streets.

How to Join a Räbeliechtli Parade Near You

Carve a turnip or lantern together at home — it’s half the fun!
Bring matches or a safe LED light and make sure the lantern hangs securely.
Dress warmly and wear reflective clothing.
Many parades happen rain or shine — and most ask for no open flames.

Upcoming Parade Highlights

Tue, 4 Nov — Winterthur (Neuwiesen) 18:30–20:30, Garden of Kindergarten Schützenwiese. (winterthur-neuwiesen.ch)
Wed, 5 Nov — Winterthur (Töss) Räbeliechtliumzug Töss (time listed by local Gugge schedule). (Eulachschränzer)
Thu, 6 Nov — Muri AG 18:00, kindergarten & lower school lantern parade to Schulhaus Kloster. (aargautourismus.ch)
Fri, 7 Nov — Aarau (Zelgli) Start 18:30 at Wallerplatz; punch served after. (aarau-zelgli.ch)
Sat, 8 Nov — Zürich (Friesenberg/Sihlhauptstadt area) Staged “Sternmarsch” to Friesenbergplatz, groups start 18:00/18:10 at multiple meetpoints; no torches. (fgzzh.ch)
08.11.2025 – Richterswil
18:00 → Gratis zugänglich; Badge-Pflicht ab 16 J., keine Hunde/Kinderwagen (vvrs.ch).
08.11.2025 – Zürich Friesenberg
18:00 → Sternmarsch mit mehreren Treffpunkten; keine Fackeln, bei jeder Witterung.
Tue, 11 Nov — Basel (Lange Erlen / Eglisee) 17:15–18:15; ends at Kaffi ELCH, optional soup afterwards. (Quartiertreffpunkte Basel)
Fri, 11 Nov — Basel (Wettsteinquartier) 18:00 from Theodorskirche; St. Martin’s day theme. (erk-bs.ch)
Thu, 13 Nov — Basel (Kannenfeldpark) “Räbeliechtl im Kannenfeldpark” with carving + parade; tea & soup; free, registration noted. (Stadtteilsekretariat Basel-West)
Wohlen AG School calendar lists 4 Nov (backup 6 Nov); check local school’s page for your child’s centre. (schulewohlen.ch)

To find carving workshops check your local school and neighborhood associations across Zürich, Basel, and Aargau organize their own lantern walks in early November. Check your local school or quarter association page for the nearest date.