Yodelers Beat Heatwave with Fountain Rehearsals

Record-breaking temperatures of around 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit) did not deter participants at Switzerland's national yodeling festival in Basel. This year, the Eidgenössisches Jodlerfest saw its more than 12,000 performers and nearly 200,000 visitors seeking respite from the heat by practicing in city fountains.

The festival, held from Friday to Sunday, was a significant event as it marked the first national celebration since Swiss yodeling was added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2025. Performers competed in yodeling, alphorn playing, and flag-throwing, showcasing a tradition deeply rooted in regional dialects and distinct from Austrian styles.

Despite the challenging heat, participants like Freddie Conquer, who traveled from New Zealand, aimed to stay connected to their Swiss heritage. The alphorn, a traditional herdsman's instrument, was prominently featured, its players mastering its natural harmonics. Competitions concluded on Sunday morning, with some groups, like Jodlerklub Balfrin, achieving perfect scores.