Dear Sir or Madam,
The 20th edition of Avenches Tattoo is almost here, and we look forward to welcoming you from 3–5 September 2026 in the spectacular setting of the Swiss National Stud in Avenches.
To help you make the most of your visit, we have put together the key information you need ahead of the Show, including getting to the venue, entering the arena and the facilities and services available throughout the festival.
At a glance
- The arena opens one hour before each performance.
- The Show lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, with no interval.
- Performances take place in all weather conditions.
- Sunny weather is forecast throughout the three days of the festival. For the Saturday afternoon performance in particular, please remember to bring a hat or cap, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle or bottle of water so that you can stay well hydrated.
- Pets are not permitted in the arena.
- Avenches Tattoo operates a cashless (No Cash) payment system. If required, a prepaid card can be topped up with cash at the dedicated point on site.
Getting to Avenches Tattoo
There are several ways to travel to Avenches Tattoo. We recommend allowing plenty of time for your journey, particularly in the hours leading up to each performance.
By car and parking
Parking for Avenches Tattoo visitors is organised by the Municipality of Avenches throughout the festival.
When you arrive, please follow the “MANIFESTATION TATTOO” signs and the directions given by staff on site.
A parking fee of CHF 5.– per vehicle is charged by the Municipality.
As an equestrian event will be taking place at the IENA site at the same time, please make sure you follow the “Manifestation TATTOO” signs.
By public transport
Avenches Tattoo can also be easily reached by public transport.
Avenches railway station can be reached from the directions of Fribourg, Lausanne/Payerne, Neuchâtel/Morat and Bern/Morat.
Throughout the three days of the festival, the Municipality of Avenches provides free shuttle buses connecting:
- Avenches railway station;
- Avenches town centre, “Collège sous-ville” stop;
- the Swiss National Stud, close to the Tattoo Square.
On Thursday and Friday, shuttle buses run from 5.00pm, approximately every 20 minutes until midnight, followed by a reduced service until 2.00am.
On Saturday, shuttle buses run from 11.30am, approximately every 20 minutes until midnight, followed by a reduced service until 2.00am.
Shuttle buses will also take visitors back to the railway station after the performances.
Parking and shuttle buses for the Parade – Saturday 5 September
On Saturday 5 September, free parking will be available for visitors attending the Parade in the sports area close to Avenches railway station.
From the car park, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the town centre, where you can enjoy the Parade.
From 11.30am, free shuttle buses will then take visitors to the Swiss National Stud for the afternoon performance, with return services to the railway station after the Show.
Entering the arena
The arena opens one hour before each performance.
Please allow plenty of time to reach the venue, pass through the entry points and take your seat comfortably before the Show begins.
Your ticket shows your section, row and seat number. Please follow the signage and the directions given by our team to help ensure a smooth entry into the arena.
Show duration
The Show lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, with no interval.
Tattoo Square – Food, drink and entertainment
Before and after the performances, make sure to visit the Tattoo Square, located just a short distance from the arena.
At the heart of the festival atmosphere, the Tattoo Square offers a range of food stalls, bars and free live music.
The Tattoo Square is open from 5.30pm on Thursday and Friday, and from 12 noon on Saturday.
Discover the full programme of free concerts on our website:
avenchestattoo.ch/tattoo-square
Payments – No Cash
Avenches Tattoo operates a cashless (No Cash) payment system.
The following payment methods are accepted throughout the festival site:
- Debit and credit cards
- TWINT
- A prepaid card available on site, which can be topped up with cash for visitors who do not have a bank card.
Weather
Avenches Tattoo performances will normally go ahead whatever the weather.
We recommend checking the weather forecast before your visit and dressing appropriately for the conditions, particularly in the event of rain or cooler temperatures.
For the Saturday afternoon performance, hot and sunny weather is expected, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C.
We strongly recommend bringing a hat or cap, sunscreen, light clothing, and a water bottle so that you can stay well hydrated throughout your visit.
Avenches Tattoo Parade
Another highlight of the festival awaits on Saturday 5 September 2026, from 11.00am to 11.45am, when the traditional Avenches Tattoo Parade takes to the streets of Avenches town centre.
The Parade is free and open to everyone.
With warm weather expected late in the morning, please remember to cover your head and bring enough water to stay hydrated.
It is a wonderful opportunity to see the performers in a different setting and soak up the festival atmosphere before continuing your day at the Swiss National Stud.
Photos and videos
Avenches Tattoo is, above all, an experience to enjoy in the moment.
Photos and videos for personal use are welcome, provided you are considerate of the performers and those around you. When taking photos or filming, please make sure you do not obstruct the view of other audience members and avoid using flash photography.
Most importantly, enjoy the Show and soak up the unique atmosphere of this special anniversary edition!
Plan your visit
Full timings, travel information, festival news, the programme and all practical information can be found on our official website:
We also recommend checking the practical information shortly before your visit for any last-minute updates relating to traffic, public transport, the programme or weather conditions.
We look forward to welcoming you to Avenches for the 20th edition of Avenches Tattoo and sharing an unforgettable celebration of music and spectacle with you.
See you soon in Avenches!
The Avenches Tattoo Team
