What’s On in September 2015

The summer holidays have flown by so fast and it’s time to go back to our routines but don’t worry as there is still a great deal to do with children in this wonderful area during the autumn months.

Make the most of our events listings for the month of September and remember to keep checking our blog on a general basis as we will be updating this post with more events each week. Happy rentrée to all!

 

APPLE-PICKING:

Autumn is the season to go apple-picking with the kids, just find the closest farm to you and bring a sturdy bag. Make sure you check with them when picking starts, as it may be more towards the end of September/beginning of October.

Some farms will let you pick pears and plums too — such a great alternative to supermarket shopping!

 

PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Public libraries in Geneva, Carouge and Lausanne offer many activities for children of all ages, including workshops, story-times (usually in French but many times in other languages too) and puppet shows.  The bibliothèques in Geneva, Lausanne and neighbouring communes hold too many kids events each month to list them all here so here’s some links you can check regularly:

Geneva public libraries events & activities

Carouge public libraries events & activities

Lausanne public libraries events & activities

The newly-refurbished Bibliothèque de la Cité in ‪Geneva‬ (Place des Trois-Perdrix 5) reopened last May after extensive renovation work — here’s what the kids corner looks like now, isn’t it fab?

 

TOY LIBRARIES

On those gray, drizzly autumn days when nothing seems to placate your little buttons, remember you can visit your local ludothèques for free play and some light relief.

Find out more about toy libraries that allow free play for kids in our previous post.

 

SEPTEMBER 2015 LISTINGS:

• Wednesday 2nd September 2015: “Pouvons-nous vivre ailleurs?” – Animation du mercredi  from age 7 at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Wednesday workshops will take place from 2pm to 4.30pm (second floor).

 

• Wednesday 2nd September 2015: La visite au fil des contes, guided tour and story-time for all ages conducted in French by Floriane Facchini at the  MEG museum in Geneva (Musée d’ethnographie de la Ville de Genève, Boulevard Carl-Vogt 65-67). The tour is open to all and FREE OF CHARGE, meet at the information desk. Starting at 2.30pm until 4pm.

 

• Wednesday 2nd September 2015: petits rendez-vous at Geneva’s MAMCO, suitable for ages 5 to 10 and starting at 11.15am. These are free guided tours for kids. The petits rendez-vous at Geneva’s MAMCO continue every Wednesday afternoon and on the first Sunday of every month, suitable for children aged 5 to 10 accompanied by an adult they are free of charge and require no advance booking. The upcoming petits rendez-vous (all in French) will be: Sunday 6th (at 11.15am); Wednesday 9th; Wed. 16th; Wed. 23rd & Wed. 30th of September at 3.15pm. If you have very young children, don’t miss the mini rendez-vous for children aged 2 to 4, accompanied by an adult. The next one will be on Wednesday 2nd September 2015 at 3.15pm. They last approx. 20 minutes and are free of charge (in French, no advance booking required).

 

• Friday 4th September 2015: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at the Jardin Anglais in Geneva with the support of the charity Zoe4Life. Watch the Jet d’eau turn gold and take part in this important event starting at 7pm. Entry is free but donations in support of the charity are gratefully accepted.

 

• 4th-5th September 2015: Fête au village: course de caisse à savon in Commugny (VD). A lovely village festival boasting a super-fun mini car race! The mini cars must be built from small wooden crates, find more info and photos here.

 

• 4th-6th September 2015: “Le livre sur le quai” book festival in Morges (VD) will offer a programme jam-packed with great authors like Esther Freud, Jonathan Coe, Christos Tsiolkas, Paul Lynch and Albertine, kids activities, workshops, story-times and a dedicated section for English-speaking writers. The festival’s English programme will include author talks as well as writing workshops for adults and teenagers. Free entry, see the official website for full programme details.

 

• Saturday 5th September 2015: Journée portes ouvertes Compagnie des Sapeurs-Pompiers d’Onex, open day with the Onex and Lancy fire brigades — the kids will love it! From 10am until 6pm there will be activities and games for children, live fire fighting demonstrations, food trucks and live music. FREE ENTRY.

 

• Saturday 5th September 2015: “Dinosaures, fossiles et autres aventures de la Terre Animation Géosciences”, a workshop and conference in French for kids aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). A fun way to discover more about fossils and dinosaurs, these free Saturday workshops in French start from the hall on the 3rd floor and take place at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

 

• 5th-6th September 2015: La ville est à vous in Europe (Geneva). This public event involves street parties, second-hand sales and activities for children. Take a look at the official website for all upcoming weekends and join in, because the city really does belongs to you! Here’s the list of upcoming street parties: 26th-27th September: Pâquis.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: Free entry to all museums and exhibitions in Geneva, a special initiative organized by the city of Geneva offering free access to permanent and temporary exhibitions on the first Sunday of every month.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: “Sommes-nous seuls dans l’Univers?” – free guided tours for families and children  aged 8+ and accompanied by an adult at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Sunday tours will take place at 2.30pm on all floors.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: “Système solaire Atelier” free workshops for children  aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free workshops will take place at 11am to 12pm on the second floor. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: enjoy a unique tour of the city on the Geneva Historical Trams leaving from the Rive tram stop. A great way to see the city with young children — they will love riding the old city trams! During the summer, on the first Sunday of every month these “Trams touristiques” will be circulating from Carouge to Nations, Gare Cornavin, Eaux-Vives and the city centre. Tickets for a single ride are 8CHF and 12CHF for a day pass, children aged 6 to 16 pay a reduced fee.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: Fête des Tomates-Urbaines et marché d’automne a lovely farmers’ market showcasing vintage seeds, tomatoes and historic produce as well as offering a number of exciting family activities, including a petting farm, treasure hunts and workshops. This autumn market will be taking place at the Parc aux animaux in Sauvabelin, Lausanne from 9am to 5pm. Free entry, click here to see the full programme.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: Foire de Borex (VD) from 8am until 6pm. You will find superb food stalls, serving up wood-fired pizza, fish, BBQ and a lot more. Children will have their own 5,000 m2 area with various bouncy castles, perfect for kids of different ages. Parents can enjoy the vide grenier, wine bar and Guggenmusik! FREE ENTRY.

 

• Sunday 6th September 2015: Paddle for Cancer Dragonboat Festival on the shores of the Lac de Joux in l’Abbaye, Switzerland. The ESCA Paddle for Cancer dragonboat festival is the annual cancer awareness raising and fundraising event organised by the English Speaking Cancer Association (ESCA)  in Geneva. As well as the boat race itself, the festival offers activities for children including bouncy castles and face-painting, food stalls and charity auctions.

 

• Wednesday 9th September 2015: “Pouvons-nous vivre ailleurs?” – Animation du mercredi  from age 7 at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Wednesday workshops will take place from 2pm to 4.30pm (second floor).

 

• 9th-13th September 2015: Geneva Yoga Music Festival a great event for all yoga lovers, pooling together an exciting blend of music, yoga, massage and other treats from a wide range of local and international yogis, therapists & musicians. The festival will take place across 5 different locations, all within walking distance from each other. Click here for full programme details and to book your tickets. Namaste everyone!

 

• Thursday 10th September 2015: Jeûne genevois, bank holiday in Canton Geneva. Shops, offices and schools will be closed! If you’re in town, make the most of the new initiative by Geneva Tourism: « En vacances dans votre ville ». You can read all about it here.

 

• 10th-13th September 2015: Festival de Bande Dessinée at the Place de la Riponne in Lausanne. Another great event for comic books lovers, with exhibitions, cartoons screenings, meetings with international and Swiss comic artists such as Zep, Albertine and many more. Check the official website for full programme details.

 

• Saturday 12th September 2015: “Dinosaures, fossiles et autres aventures de la Terre Animation Géosciences”, a workshop and conference in French for kids aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). A fun way to discover more about fossils and dinosaurs, these free Saturday workshops in French start from the hall on the 3rd floor and take place at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

 

• Saturday 12th September 2015: Urban Art workshops for children aged 6-12 and 13+ at the Bibliothèque de la Servette in ‪Geneva. In French – FREE ENTRY.

 

• Saturday 12th September 2015: Grand opening of Rolle’s brand new high street! After a few years of road works, Rolle’s new high street is ready to be unveiled. Don’t miss this fantastic street party running from 9am until 6.30pm with kids activities, bouncy castles, face-painting, balloons, free breakfast and giant picnic, live music and other activities organized by the local shops and boutiques. FREE ENTRY.

 

• Saturday 12th September 2015: The Colour Run, a colourful charity event in support of the Make a Wish Foundation of Switzerland. Join in this fun 5km run where you will be sprayed with naturally-coloured powders! More info on http://thecolorrun.ch/

 

• Saturday 12th September 2015: Place à la vie! at the place Pépinet in Lausanne. A charity event hosted by the Ligue vaudoise contre le cancer and dedicated to all the families of children with cancer. From 9am until 5pm there will be activities for children, face painting, cake decorating workshops, zumba sessions, lego and duplo competitions, songs and live music. At 7pm there will be a Rapilium® concert at the EJMA.

 

• until 12th September 2015: CERN exhibition at ‪‎Balexert. Come and build your own Particle Detector, play Proton Football or see yourself in two different universes in the Interactive LHC tunnel! FREE ENTRY. Don’t forget European Researchers’ Night at Balexert on Friday 25th of September 2015.

 

• until 12th September 2015: La Bâtie – Festival de Genève, an unmissable line-up of fantastic concerts, theatre & dance shows, workshops, exhibitions and much more. There will be shows and workshops for kids too. Visit the festival’s official website for full programme details and to book your tickets.

 

• 12th-13th September 2015: Journées européennes du patrimoine 2015 in Geneva, vaud and the rest of French-Speaking Switzerland on the theme of «Echanges – Influences». You can download the full programme here——>http://bit.ly/1LWMjt7MEG – Geneva12th-13th Sept. “Quand la philanthropie prend le large: arrêt sur le patrimoine du MEG”. Fun guided tour and workshop that will unveil all the hidden treasures of the MEG museum in Geneva.Suitable from age 6, children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE ENTRY, places must be booked in advance at 058 440 13 08. There will be 3 tours taking place from 11h15 until 12h45; from 14h until 15h30 and from 16h until 17h30.

 

• Sunday 13th Sept. “Il était une fois Genève et la Suisse” Free show and story time for families and children aged 6+. Sessions will take place at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm and will last approx. 20 minutes. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

  Sunday 13th Sept. “Petits concerts de cor des Alpes” by the quatuor Plaintube. Family concerts suitable from age 6. Sessions will take place at 2.30pm and 3.30pm. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

  

   

  Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th & Wednesday 16th September 2015: ““Au royaume des Elfes et des Lutins” puppet show in French suitable from age 4 by the theatre company Les Croquettes at the Centre Marignac in Grand-Lancy (avenue Eugène-Lance 28) with performances starting at 4pm on Saturday, 11am and 2.30pm on Sunday and 2.30pm and 4pm on Wednesday. Tickets on sale at the entrance so try to get there a bit earlier.

 

• 12th-21st September 2015: Comptoir Suisse at the Expo Beaulieu in Lausanne. A unique exhibition in the Suisse romande covering city & country lifestyle, food & wine, travel, home deco and much more. With plenty of activities and workshops for little ones too, check the official website for full details.

 

 

• Sunday 13th September 2015: “Sommes-nous seuls dans l’Univers?” – free guided tours for families and children aged 8+ and accompanied by an adult at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Sunday tours will take place at 2.30pm on all floors. The guided tour in English “Are we alone in the universe?” will take place at 10am.

 

• Sunday 13th September 2015: “Système solaire Atelier” free workshops for children  aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free workshops will take place at 11am to 12pm on the second floor. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

 

• Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2015: “Le Château des Jeux”, a fantastic FREE family event at the Musée Suisse du Jeu in La Tour-de-Peilz (VD). From 10am to 6pm discover this great games museum, its gardens and enjoy all the fab activities that will be taking place throughout the day. On Saturday 13th there will be a free “Games Night” starting at 6.30pm. FREE ENTRY TO BOTH EVENTS. To find out more about the Musée Suisse du Jeu you can read our previous post.

 

• Tuesday 15th September 2015: “Né pour lire” session from 10am-10.45am) at the BiblioQuartier des Grands-Hutins in Carouge (rue de la Tambourine 3). A fun, relaxed way to introduce your little ones from the age of 6 months to 4 years old to the joys of reading. Free entry, no advance booking necessary and nursing pillows available.

 

• Wednesday 16th September 2015: “Pouvons-nous vivre ailleurs?” – Animation du mercredi  from age 7 at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Wednesday workshops will take place from 2pm to 4.30pm (second floor).

 

• Wednesday 16th September 2015: “Ciel, mes bijoux !”, part of the Mercredis Family at the Musée d’art et d’histoire in Geneva (Rue Charles-Galland 2). Children aged 6 and older accompanied by an adult are welcome every Wednesday at 3pm to discover all about the museum collections in a fun, interactive way. Reserve your places in advance at adp-mah@ville-ge.ch or by phone at 022 418 25 00.

 

• Wednesday 16th September 2015: Le MAH à tout petits pas – Mercredi Family pour les tout-petits free guided tours for children aged 3 to 5 accompanied by an adult at the Musée d’art et d’histoire in Geneva starting at 10.30am. No previous booking required, FREE OF CHARGE.

 

• 17th-27th September 2015: La Semaine du Goût opens its doors across Switzerland to delight our tastebuds with plenty of delicious events focused on food, healthy eating and regional specialties. The number of events and workshops is amazing and too big to list here, so take a peek at their official website to find what’s going on in the area closer to you. Child-friendly activities include workshops and cookery courses , museum workshops and much more.

 

• 18th-20th September 2015: Geneva Street Food Festival at the Promenade Saint-Antoine. A sensory delight for all expat foodies who just can’t wait to tuck into some juicy burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, pizza al taglio and other mouth-watering treats. Guests will include  Brooklyn Kitchen; Sergent Garcia; Foound, Street Kitchen Lausanne, Funky BBQ, Birdie Food & CoffeeStreet Gourmet; Nero’s Pizza; The Hamburger Foundation and many more. The festival will be open from 5pm until 11pm on Friday; 11am until 11pm on Saturday and 11am until 5pm on Sunday. FREE ENTRY.

 

• 18th-20th September 2015: Alternatiba Festival in Plainpalais, Geneva. Download the full programme because there is so much going on, it would be impossible to list everything here! Join discussions and activities on climate change and sustainable development, as well as fun workshops for kids, story times at the parc Gourgas and in the gardens of the Villa Freundler, fun family games and much more. FREE ENTRY. Open from 6pm until midnight on Friday 18th, 10am until midnight on Saturday 19th and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday 20th of September.

 

• 18th-20th September 2015: Féeries de Joux festival, a unique & magical way to discover the natural scenery of the beautiful Vallée de Joux. Discover the world of forest gnomes & fairies, take part in the exploratory walks, story-times and brunch. See the official website for full details.

 

• 18th-21st September 2015: Creative Lausanne at the Halle 4 Expo Beaulieu in Lausanne. This is one of the best arts & crafts fairs in the area, open everyday from 10am to 7pm with many creative workshops and activities. Entry is 14CHF but you can get a discount if you visit the Comptoir Suisse at the same time. Click here for more info.

 

• 18th-27th September 2015: Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes in Charleville-Mézières (France). A unique event, well worth the drive from Geneva. Check the official website for full programme details of this international festival which will delight the whole family.

 

• Saturday 19th September 2015: “Dinosaures, fossiles et autres aventures de la Terre Animation Géosciences”, a workshop and conference in French for kids aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). A fun way to discover more about fossils and dinosaurs, these free Saturday workshops in French start from the hall on the 3rd floor and take place at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

 

• Saturday 19th September 2015: Les Ateliers en Fête, a fantastic free event running from 3pm to 10pm on Rue du Léman and Place de la Navigation in Geneva (Pâquis). Organized by Les CréAteliers, the event will offer free trial sessions on a variety of crafts including calligraphy, jewellery making, engraving and much more. There will be food stalls and free live concerts from 8pm.

 

• 19th-20th September 2015: Fête des vendanges in Russins (Geneva). One of the area’s most famous autumn festivals now in its 53rd edition, celebrating grape-harvest season with exciting activities for the whole family: from pony rides for the little ones to free tastings of local wines for mum & dad. Don’t miss the fête des enfants on Saturday from 2pm to 5pm and the closing parade on Sunday from 2pm. Free entry, see the official website for full programme details.

 

• 19th-20th September 2015: Inauguration du nouveau Centre Nature by Pro Natura Genève at the Centre Nature du Vallon de l’Allondon in Dardagny (150 route de l’Allondon). The weekend will be filled with great activities for all including nature walks, family workshops, fun outdoor games, treasure hunt, live music and delicious BBQ. FREE ENTRY. Open from 10am until 11pm on Saturday 19th and from 10am until 6pm on Sunday 20th.

 

• 19th-20th September 2015: “Mamie fripe”, a delightful music & puppetry show suitable from age 1, part of Les Concerts de Lancy listings. The show will take place at the Cave Marignac in Grand-Lancy (av. Eugène-Lance 28) at 4pm on Saturday 19th and at 11am on Sunday 20th of September. Tickets cost 5CHF and 10CHF, to be reserved in advance at +41 22 757 15 63.

 

• 19th-20th September 2015: “Faim de loup”, fun puppet show in French suitable from age 8 at the Théâtre des Marionnettes de Genève (Rue Rodo 3), which tells the story of modern day Little Red Riding Hood. See the theatre’s official website for prices and to reserve your places.

 

• 19th-20th September 2015: Marché d’automne at Le panier gourmand  – Domaine d’Avenex in Signy (VD). Pick your own fruit, stock up on big pumpkins for Halloween and taste their delicious soupe à la courge! FREE ENTRY.

 

• Sunday 20th September 2015: “Sommes-nous seuls dans l’Univers?” – free guided tours for families and children aged 8+ and accompanied by an adult at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Sunday tours will take place at 2.30pm on all floors.

 

• Sunday 20th September 2015: “Système solaire Atelier” free workshops for children  aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free workshops will take place at 11am to 12pm on the second floor. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

 

• Monday 21st September 2015: Lundi du Jeûne fédéral, bank holiday in Canton Vaud. Shops, offices and schools will be closed!

 

• until 21st September 2015: Lausanne Estivale, a great summer festival offering plenty of activities, concerts and more for all ages. The programme will be online at the beginning of June so check their official website for full details.

 

• 22nd-30th September 2015: “Pierre à pierre”, an adorable puppet show in French suitable from age 2 at the Théâtre des Marionnettes de Genève (Rue Rodo 3). See the theatre’s official website for prices and to reserve your places.

 

• Wednesday 23rd September 2015: “Pouvons-nous vivre ailleurs?” – Animation du mercredi  from age 7 at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Wednesday workshops will take place from 2pm to 4.30pm (second floor).

 

• Wednesday 23rd September 2015: Mukashi! Mukashi!, stories and legend from Japan told in French by Floriane Facchini at the  MEG museum in Geneva (Musée d’ethnographie de la Ville de Genève, Boulevard Carl-Vogt 65-67). The activity is suitable from age 4 and it’s free once you purchase the ticket to the current MEG exhibition. Story time takes place from 2pm until 2.45pm, places must be reserved in advance at inscriptions.meg@
  ville-ge.ch

 

• Wednesday 23rd September 2015: “Devenir petit Suisse”, part of the Mercredis Family at the Musée d’art et d’histoire in Geneva (Rue Charles-Galland 2). Children aged 6 and older accompanied by an adult are welcome every Wednesday at 3pm to discover all about the museum collections in a fun, interactive way. Reserve your places in advance at adp-mah@ville-ge.ch or by phone at 022 418 25 00.

 

• Wednesday 23rd, Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th September 2015: “Mon ours a disparu” puppet show in French suitable from age 4 by the theatre company Les Croquettes at la Chapelle in Collex (Ch Fruitière) with 2 performances starting at 2.30pm and at 11am on Sunday morning. Tickets on sale at the entrance so try to get there a bit earlier.

 

• Friday 25th September 2015: Researchers’ Night at Balexert in Geneva. European Researchers’ Night is a Europe-wide public event dedicated to popular science and learning.
  POP Science is the Researchers’ Night event for the Geneva region, where CERN will present science at the movies, comics, music, poetry and games. From 10am in the morning until 1am you will be able to Explore Science in comics; watch films that explore the world of research; interact with CERN researchers, build your own mini-LHC and explore the music of physics. FREE ENTRY.

 

• 25th-27th September 2015: Les Pâquis sont à la rue, free street festival in the Pâquis neighbourhood in Geneva. This is a fantastic street fest, with vide-grenier, live concerts, street performances and fun activities for kids, including kids football, story times, juggling shows, donkey rides and more! On Friday 25th you will also be able to donate non-perishable food and toiletries for the CarrefourS-Rue charity. FREE ENTRY, click here to download the full programme.

 

• 25th-27th September 2015: Fête du Bourg de Coppet (VD). This lovely festival only takes place every 10 years, so don’t miss it! The programme is jam-packed with great with great activities for the whole family, live concerts, equestrian shows, story-times for children at Coppet castle, circus shows by l’Elastique Citrique and fireworks. Click here to see the full programme. FREE ENTRY.

 

• 25th-27th September 2015: Fête des Vendanges in Neuchâtel. As described on the Neuchateltourisme.ch website: “The grand night-time procession with “Guggenmusik” (or “Happy Music”) takes place on the Friday night, but groups in costume are out and about all through the festival. The children’s fancy-dress parade, a joyful and colourful event, is traditionally held on the Saturday afternoon. The Sunday afternoon floral procession also attracts a vast crown of onlookers. Punctuated by fanfares and peppered with humorous touches by some of the groups in costume, this parade carries on the tradition of the procession of the grape-harvest carts, decorated with flowers and loaded with the wine-growers’ tools, which takes place at the end of the grape harvest.”

 

• Saturday 26th September 2015: Colour run – Run to Run in Carouge. The programme will include races for all ages and levels (poussins to adults!) as well as a fun, colourful paint race. The day will end with a scrumptious risotto for everyone. Find the full programme here.

 

• Saturday 26th September 2015: “Dinosaures, fossiles et autres aventures de la Terre Animation Géosciences”, a workshop and conference in French for kids aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). A fun way to discover more about fossils and dinosaurs, these free Saturday workshops in French start from the hall on the 3rd floor and take place at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

 

• Saturday 26th September 2015: “Foire d’automne” at the Salle de spectacles in Founex. FREE ENTRY, open from 10am until 5pm. A lovely Autumn fair with live music, entertainment, children’s area and food stalls. Definitely a fun packed day for the whole family: you’ll find over 15 stalls and a well-being corner, including nails and massage!
  Foire d’automne – Salle de spectacles – Route de Chataigneriaz 3 – 1297 Founex (VD).

 

• Saturday 26th September 2015: La Nuit des Musées in Lausanne & Pully (VD). Discover Lausanne & Pully’s museums under a different light & enjoy the special activities planned for Museum Night. See the official website for full details.

 

• until Saturday 26th September 2015: the Musée Départemental des Sapeurs-Pompiers in Gex (France) is open until the 26th of September every Saturday from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 6pm. Entry tickets are 5 € for adults and 3 € for kids. Musée Départemental des Sapeurs-Pompiers – 380 avenue des Alpes – 01170 Gex – FRANCE (Tel : 04 50 20 86 97).

 

• Saturday 26th September 2015: Désalpe in Charmey, Canton Fribourg. During September and October, “Désalpe” is the best-known of all traditional mountain festivities. After more than four months of grazing in alpine pastures, cows make their way down to the plain. You will see the “armaillis” dressed in “bredzons” and their ladies in “dzaquillons”. As for the cows, thundering bells will be hanging from their necks and brightly couloured flowers on their heads. There will be a parade, traditional music and a market with local products among other things. The main “Désalpes” of the region take place in Semsales, Charmey, Schwarzsee and Albeuve.

 

• 26th-27th September 2015: Plaine de Jeunes sports festival on the plaine de Plainpalais in Geneva, dedicated to young people aged 15 to 25 (but families are welcome too!). There will be live music, dance competitions, sports demonstrations from 75 local associations, workshops, fun activities, food stalls and much more! FREE ENTRY, open from 10.30am until 6pm.

 

• 26th-27th September 2015: La ville est à vous in Pâquis (Geneva). This public event involves street parties, second-hand sales and activities for children. Take a look at the official website for all upcoming weekends and join in, because the city really does belongs to you!

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: “Sommes-nous seuls dans l’Univers?” – free guided tours for families and children aged 8+ and accompanied by an adult at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Sunday tours will take place at 2.30pm on all floors. The guided tour in English “Are we alone in the universe?” will take place at 10am.

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: “Système solaire Atelier” free workshops for children  aged 6+ at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free workshops will take place at 11am to 12pm on the second floor. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking necessary.

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: Cultures animées, free Animatou screenings suitable from age 8 in the Auditorium of the the MEG museum in Geneva (Musée d’ethnographie de la Ville de Genève, Boulevard Carl-Vogt 65-67). From 11.15am until midday. FREE ENTRY no advance booking required.

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: Déjeuner sur l’herbe et marché à l’ancienne at Prangins Castle (VD) from 10am to 5pm. A fantastic family event in 18th century costumes, inspired by the castle’s long history: you’ll be able to meet the Baron and his family, kick back and enjoy some live music in the castle’s beautiful gardens and also purchase local produce at the old-style market stalls. Read all about last year’s edition here.

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: Les Puces de Nyon, very scenic flea market in the pretty lakeside town of Nyon (VD). Grab a fab bargain or a delicious Italian ice-cream!

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: Marche de l’espoir in Arnex-sur-Nyon (VD). Free entry from 10am until 4pm, you can participate in your rollerskates too! There will be fun activities for children including bouncy castles, face-painting, kids dance, creative workshops, games and bingo.

 

• Sunday 27th September 2015: Fête du sport at the Complexe Sportif du Cosec in Ferney Voltaire (France). From 10am until 6pm you will be able to try out different sports and watch live demonstrations. FREE ENTRY.

 

• until Sunday 27th September 2015: Free Spectacles enfants — clowns, music and other fun kids shows in French at the Parc Pré Vert Signal de Bougy. Shows will take place at 3pm in the park’s amphitheatre but will be cancelled in case of bad weather and rain. Click here to download the complete list of upcoming shows. FREE ENTRY, no advance booking required.

 

• Wednesday 30th September 2015: “Pouvons-nous vivre ailleurs?” – Animation du mercredi  from age 7 at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou). In connection with the current exhibition “Exoplanètes”, these free Wednesday workshops will take place from 2pm to 4.30pm (second floor).

 

• Wednesday 30th September 2015: “Sculptures en mouvement”, part of the Mercredis Family at the Musée d’art et d’histoire in Geneva (Rue Charles-Galland 2). Children aged 6 and older accompanied by an adult are welcome every Wednesday at 3pm to discover all about the museum collections in a fun, interactive way. Reserve your places in advance at adp-mah@ville-ge.ch or by phone at 022 418 25 00.

 

• Wednesday 30th September 2015: La visite au fil des contes, guided tour and story-time for all ages conducted in French by Floriane Facchini at the  MEG museum in Geneva (Musée d’ethnographie de la Ville de Genève, Boulevard Carl-Vogt 65-67). The tour is open to all and FREE OF CHARGE, meet at the information desk. Starting at 2.30pm until 3.3pm.

 

SUNDAY BRUNCH, DAYS OUT & MORE FAMILY FUN

• Take a look at our previous post to find all the best child-friendly places to enjoy a delicious and stress-free Sunday brunch with your little buttons.
• If it’s a scorcher, what about a scrumptious “brunch in the sun” with the family ?
• Summer is the perfect season for picnics too, here’s some of our favourite spots – what are yours ?
• Now that the sun is out, why not take the kids to pick-their-own veggies at the farm? Find out more about “libre service” farm markets in our previous post.
• Want to know how to survive a rainy Sunday ? Find some ideas and suggestions here.
• Spring is a fantastic time to explore Switzerland and its picturesque villages. Read our previous post for suggestions about great days out with the kids
• If you’re planning a holiday or a short break, here’s some places our little ones have loved: Papiliorama in Kerzers (CH); Ballenberg Open Air Museum (CH); Bern (CH); Thun (CH); Pérouges (France); Lyon (France); Versailles (France); Dijon (France); Aosta (Italy); LEGOLAND in Windsor (UK); Antalya (Turkey) and many more charming places to see in Switzerland.
• When the sun is out, why not take the boat across the lake to visit the medieval village of Yvoire in nearby France?
• A bit further away but definitely worth a visit is the French village of Pérouges, it’s a great family day out!

 

ONGOING:

• until October 2015: Les Quais du Dahlia, a wonderful dahlias exhibition along the lakeside in Morges. See over 2,250 gorgeous dahlia flowers bloom in hundreds of varieties all along the Quai Igor Strawinsky in Morges (VD). A truly stunning view along the town’s lakeside. Read all about last year’s edition in our previous post.

 

• until 18th October 2015: “Plantes & Spiritualités”, a great exhibition and themed walk at the Botanical Gardens in Geneva. A perfect day-out for the whole family, with plenty of outdoor attractions for the little ones: a great playground, free zoo, merry-go-round and beautiful gardens of course! FREE ENTRY, open everyday from 8am to 7.30pm.

 

• until 25th October 2015: “L’œil nu” a fantastic new exhibition suitable from age 7 at the Espace des Inventions in Lausanne (Vallée de la Jeunesse 1). The exhibition will teach your little ones everything there is to know about sight and vision, through a series of interactive stations. Alongside the exhibition there will also be a series of fun workshops for ages 7 to 12 called “Le Club des petits inventeurs”, from 2pm to 5pm on selected days. Click here to download the list of activities.

 

• until 25th October 2015: “Alison Elizabeth Taylor: Savage Root”, new art exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist Alison Elizabeth Taylor at the Musée – Château de Nyon (VD). This American artist has become well-known for reinvigorating the Renaissance craft of marquetry, or intarsia wood inlay, which she uses to depict contemporary scenes of rural and urban life. This is her first solo European exhibition, which features great workshops for kids starting in September 2015, guided tours for adults and a special American evening to celebrate the 4th of July.

 

• until 4th April 2016: Exoplanète, a great exhibition at the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (1, route de Malagnou) to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the discovery of the first exoplanète, a planet situated outside our solar system by the Swiss astrophysicists from the Observatoire de Genève, Michel Mayor & Didier Queloz. This exhibition is accompanied by a number of kids workshops, guided tours, astronomical observation and many more events in the months to come.

 

• until May 2016: Exposition de la maquette de la ville de Genève. The architectural model of the city of ‪Geneva‬ looks pretty awesome, it comprises of 145 modules and it took 40 years to complete! It is now on display for the first time and open to the public on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am until 6pm at the “Exposition de la maquette de la ville de Genève” — 25 rue du Stand — Geneva. The exhibition opened on the 15th of April 2015 and will run until May 2016. You can call +41 22 418 20 63 for more info or to book a guided tour.

 

• The permanent exhibition “Noblesse Oblige” at Prangins Castle is a great day-out for the whole family, take a step back in time with your children to see how a noble Swiss family lived in the 18th century! Find out more about this fantastic family exhibition in our previous post.