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Chalandamarz in Sils

Name: Chalandamarz in Sils
Start: 2027-03-01T00:00:00+01:00
End: 2027-03-01T23:59:00+01:00
Location: 7514 Sils / Segl Maria, Switzerland

7514 Sils / Segl Maria, Switzerland
Silvaplana, Switzerland
Mon, March 1, 2027 (12:00 am - 11:59 pm)

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Description

«Chalandamarz, chaland´avrigl, laschè las vachas our d´uvigl...» The roots of Chalandamarz can be traced back to pagan times, among the Romans. The month of March is dedicated to Mars, the god of the sun and war. According to the Julian calendar, the year began in March, and in warmer regions, spring also started at this time. This event was celebrated with grand festivals to ask Mars for his blessing for fields, meadows, and livestock. The Romans also played an important role in the Engadine and left traces of their customs there. Whips cracking, bells ringing, and singing drive away the invisible spirits. This noise is supposed to instill fear in the winter (spirit) and thus awaken fertility. Read more about Chalandamarz on our Silser Geschichte. The parade through Val Fex takes place on February 26.

Highlights

Traditional parade on March 1
Children drive away winter with singing and bells
Historical roots in pagan customs

General Information

The Chalandamarz in Sils is a historic custom where children walk through the village with bells to drive away winter. This festival has its roots in Roman times and is celebrated with singing and cracking whips.