Swiss Federal Music Festival Opens in Biel/Bienne Despite Weather.

The Swiss Federal Music Festival has officially begun in Biel/Bienne, with thousands of musicians taking part in one of the country’s largest cultural events despite concerns over heavy rain.

The opening parade started on Thursday at around 12:30 pm after organisers made a last-minute decision to proceed. While light drizzle was reported during parts of the day, the weather also improved at times, allowing the procession to continue through the city streets.

Organisers had earlier warned that the parade could be cancelled if conditions worsened, as wind instruments such as clarinets, saxophones, and oboes are particularly vulnerable to rain damage.

The festival’s communications manager, Théo Martin, confirmed that the decision to proceed depended heavily on weather conditions, with heavy rainfall remaining the main risk factor for cancellation.

A member of the organising committee, Jean-Marc Richard, highlighted the cultural importance of the event, stating that the festival showcases the “power and energy of wind instruments” and helps challenge common stereotypes about folk music.

The Swiss Federal Music Festival brings together around 532 music societies from across Switzerland, with more than 25,000 participants competing in various categories between Thursday and Sunday.

Held approximately every five years, the event is one of Switzerland’s most significant musical gatherings, attracting large audiences and celebrating the country’s strong tradition of amateur and professional wind music ensembles.