Basel, Switzerland to host the 32nd World Yodelling and Alphorn Festival this June

Travel Talk with Ed Finn

Sunday, 14 June 2026 - 8 minutes

On this week's Travel Talk, Ed Finn was in studio chatting about an upcoming trip that promises to be unlike any other. On June 25th, Ed travels to Basel, Switzerland, to attend the World Yodelling Festival, one of the biggest celebrations of Swiss culture and tradition.

Held only once every few years, the festival attracts thousands of performers and visitors from across Switzerland and beyond. Yodellers, alphorn players and traditional flag throwers will fill the streets of Basel, creating a spectacular showcase of Alpine heritage in the heart of one of Europe's most vibrant cities.

Yodelling is much more than a curious sound associated with the Alps. For centuries it was used by mountain farmers and herders to communicate across valleys and mountain slopes. Today it remains a cherished part of Swiss identity and has recently been recognised by UNESCO as an important element of Switzerland's living cultural heritage.

During the programme, Ed explains why he has always been fascinated by Switzerland, ever since his first school tour there as a teenager, and why the opportunity to experience this unique festival was simply too good to miss. He also looks ahead to the highlights of the event, including mass yodelling performances, alphorn competitions, traditional Swiss music, folk costumes and the chance to experience Basel at its most colourful.

With direct flights from Dublin to Basel you can join Ed as he prepares for one of the most unusual and entertaining travel experiences of the year – a celebration of music, culture, tradition and Swiss hospitality that promises to be unforgettable.

For full details visit - Yodelling Festival Basel

Getting there - Dublin to Basel Flights

Ed is staying at the Motel One in Basel - Motel One Basel