What's on: multi-cultural fun and blues to bop

A look at what's going on this weekend, including music festivals in Gruyères, St Moritz and Lugano. Meanwhile, Fribourg welcomes performers from five continents, while Zurich's Niederdorf neighbourhood celebrates its traditional old town shin-dig. Two well-loved musicals open in Nyon and Buchs, and Zug hosts the premiere of an organic market. Then there are the Highland Games near Fribourg, plus the kick-off of Geneva's La Bâtie Festival. Or check out Museum Night in lovely Lucerne. Music Festival, Gruyères, through August 30
Medieval music is the focus of this festival in Gruyères. Musicians from Switzerland, France and Spain are performing in various venues, including the local castle and church.
 
International Folklore Meeting, Fribourg, through August 30
Groups from five continents are in Fribourg for the 35th annual International Folklore Meeting. Music, dance and traditional costumes give this multi-cultural event its colourful flair. It is the only annual festival of its kind in Switzerland.
 
Art and Symphony, St Moritz, through September 6
The violin takes centre stage at this music festival, featuring Tchaikovsky's romantic "Serenade for Strings" as well as pieces by Saint-Saëns, Sarasate and Wieniawski. Also on the agenda is the Czech Philharmonic Choir of Brno.
 
Blues to Bop, Lugano, August 27-30
For four days, the city becomes an open-air concert hall offering more than 40 hours of free live music on four stages. Now in its 21st year, the Lugano Blues to Bop festival presents up-and-coming artists from around world.
 
“Thoroughly Modern Millie”, Nyon, August 28-30
The GAOS Really Youthful Group presents this 1920s musical telling the story of young Millie Dillmount, who traveled to New York in search of a new life for herself. Performances take place at the Aula du College Nyons-Marens.
 
Old Town Festival, Niederdorf, Zurich, August 28-30
This multi-cultural village festival in downtown Zurich offers live bands, artistic performances, culinary specialties, and much, much more. “Stadtmusik Zürich”, Zurich’s official city band, will open the “Dörfli-Fäscht” with an open-air concert.
 
Regatta, Paraloc Alpen-Cup, Brunnen, August 28-30
This regatta in Canton Uri brings together sailing teams from Switzerland, Austria, southern Germany and Italy. With the lake and mountain views plus the graceful sails, the event is great for hobby photographers.
 
Highland Games, St Ursen, August 28-30
This three-day event takes place near the village of St Ursen, not far from Fribourg. Watch the games, listen to the pipers and enjoy a selection of food and drink, including Scottish cheese and whisky.
 
Museum Night, Lucerne, August 28
Here’s a bargain: entry to 12 museums for 20 Swiss francs – free for kids under 16. This annual event draws visitors into the city’s museums well into the wee hours, and the ticket price includes local bus and boat transportation.
 
La Bâtie Festival, Geneva, August 28 to September 12
With 40,000 visitors in town for some 200 shows hosted by 20 venues, Geneva’s La Bâtie Festival is a huge two-week happening. There’s everything from drama to music to modern dance, plus a healthy dose of the visual arts.
 
”Elvis Presley’s Heartbreak Hotel”, Buchs, August 28-September 26
It looks like Elvis has just entered the building – at least at this musical in Canton St Gallen. “Heartbreak Hotel” portrays the man, not the icon, and the glamour as well as the down side of success. Presented by Music Productions Werdenberg.
 
Organic Market, Zug, August 29-30
“O sole bio“ is central Switzerland’s first organic market. The lakeside event features 60 regional farm stands as well as live musical entertainment and traditional Swiss activities. Plenty of wholesome food too!