Spending August in Lausanne? You’re in for a treat! From lakeside festivals and open-air concerts to beach vibes, jazz nights, foodie pop-ups and sport events, the city is buzzing with energy all month long. Who said staying in town was boring?
Check out our picks:
- August 1: Swiss National Day. National Day festivities will be in full swing at the Place de la Navigation in lakeside Ouchy, with musical entertainment, food stalls and rides for children. The official portion will feature speeches by the mayor of Lausanne, Grégoire Junod, and guest of honor Jean-Marc Richard, radio and television host. The musical portion will be provided by Lausanne artist Billie Bird.
- Lausanne Garden Party Multi activity, free and for the general public, the Lausanne Garden Parties give pride of place to music, dancing, theatre, street arts and open-air cinema. Each of the proposals in the will take place according to the topography and specific possibilities of each park. August 1-2: Parc du Général Guisan
- August 2: Big Silent Party at La Générale, Pully.
- August 1-2, 19: JazzOnze+ Summer Concerts. Free jazz outdoor: from intimate quartets to late-night grooves, discover vibrant sounds at Place Général‑Guisan through August 19.
- August 5-8: Aperobeach Festival. An open-air celebration of music, food, and beachside vibes – Aperobeach brings a festive, summery atmosphere right to the heart of the city.
- August 6-10; 13-17: Lausanne su Mer. Sports and fun activities open to all ages, children and adults. No need to go to the seaside, the sea is coming to Lausanne!
- August 8-9: Lausanne Garden Party in Parc de Valency. Another vibrant edition of the Garden Party series, this time in the green heart of Valency park.
- August 8 and 15: Les Bobines de Valency. Open-air cinema evenings in the park – bring a blanket and enjoy films under the stars.
- August 13: Visits to the Farm. A family-friendly rural escape within the city – discover local farms and meet the animals.
- August 13: At the winemaker’s table. A unique gastronomic experience pairing fine cuisine with local wines, straight from the vineyard.
- August 13-16: Venoge Festival. A large, open-air music festival held annually in Penthaz, near Lausanne. It's known as the largest open-air music festival in the Gros de Vaud and Lausanne region. The festival features a variety of musical genres, including hip-hop, rap, and electronic dance music, with both international and local Swiss artists.
- August 15-17: Street Artists International Festival in Vevey. This free festival is the fun family event of the end of the summer holidays. The festival prize, the “Pavé d'or”, is awarded every year to Swiss and international performers.
- August 15: Flower bouquet workshop at Mille Et Une Fleurs. Learn how to create your self-service flower bouquet. You'll be able to follow each step and ask any questions you may have about the flowers, the garden, and their agricultural approach.
- August 14-17: Verbier Bike Festival. A cycling celebration in the Swiss Alps, featuring bike tests, guided rides, competitive events, and a vibrant village atmosphere with music, food, and activities for all ages and abilities.
- August 16-17: Jazz in the Park. Smooth rhythms and cool summer air – enjoy free jazz concerts in the relaxed setting of Parc de Mon Repos.
- August 20: Athletissima is THE summer sporting event in Lausanne. Every year, nearly 13,000 spectators gather to applaud the performances of 250 international athletes and the best Swiss talents.
- August 21-22-23: L’Appart at the Bassenges Farm. A pop-up cultural and culinary experience in an unexpected rural-urban venue.
- August 21-24: Afro Fusions Festival 2025, the largest African open air festival in French-speaking Switzerland. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience a unique fusion of cultures and arts in Montbenon.
- August 23: Candlelight Dinner. A magical evening dining by candlelight in an enchanting outdoor location.
- August 22: Creative Mornings Lausanne on the theme Nomad
- August 23: Riponne Brunch. In the setting of the Pergola of Palais de Rumine, let yourself be tempted by a gourmet interlude where tradition and modernity meet. On the menu: authentic local flavors, revisited specialties and local produce, carefully selected to tantalize your taste buds.
- August 21: Aperographic workshop. Mix creativity and aperitifs in this hands-on graphic design workshop.
- August 21, 24 and 28: Ephemeral tables: The places of sport. Pop-up dining meets sporting spirit in these surprise-location meals that celebrate Lausanne’s active culture.
- August 28-29-30: 15th ed. Nox Orae music festival (Tour de Peilz). A cutting-edge music festival by the lake featuring indie, electronic, and experimental acts.
- August 29-30: Beerart Festival. A celebration of craft beer and brewing culture with tastings, food, and music.
- August 29: PIC Market at the Beau-Rivage Palace. A beloved Lausanne tradition, the PIC Market brings together passionate producers and artisans cherished by Anne-Sophie Pic. Taste exceptional products, meet the people behind them, and immerse yourself in a world of authenticity and creativity. Free entry.
- August 29-31: 11th edition of Festival 4 Saisons – a celebration of music, workshops & laughter at Casino de Montbenon under the theme “Degrés croisés”. This year’s edition shines a spotlight on humor, blending fresh musical talent with playful creativity. Expect a vibrant, youth-driven atmosphere where emerging artists take center stage.
- August 31: Secret lunch at the Jardin. A surprise gourmet experience in a garden setting – location and menu revealed only at the last moment.
- August 30-31: Triathlon de Lausanne. Cheer on athletes from around the world as they swim, bike, and run through Lausanne’s scenic landscape.
- August 31: Vide-dressing in St Sulpice. Discover pre-loved fashion treasures (women, men, kids), from chic clothing to unique accessories, all at great prices. Perfect for a sustainable shopping spree with a local flair.
- Thursdays and Fridays: Concerts sur les quais in Lutry. Every Thursday and Friday in July and August, come and stroll on the docks of Lutry where free concerts are offered to you from 8 p.m. In a warm atmosphere, you will discover all genres of music: pop, rock, 60s or 80s, country, jazz.
