Caprices Winter 2026: A New Chapter Begins in Gstaad

From 13 March 2026, the Eggli will become the new winter home of the internationally renowned Caprices Festival. After 23 editions in Crans-Montana, the winter edition is relocating permanently to the Saanenland – with two weekends, three glass stages, more than 100 artists and a budget of around CHF 3 million. Caprices co-founder Maxime Léonard and local organiser Vincent Schwab speak about the historic move, its significance for the region and how Gstaad will welcome the international festival community.

After 23 editions in Crans-Montana, Caprices is moving permanently to Gstaad. What does this step mean?

Maxime Léonard (ML): It is a consciously chosen new chapter. Caprices was born in the Swiss Alps in the early 2000s – the first edition took place in 2004. Over more than two decades in Crans-Montana, we built an international reference point for electronic music. Now we are turning the page. With the Eggli in Gstaad, we remain true to our vision of connecting nature, art and music – while elevating the overall experience to an even higher level.

Vincent Schwab (VS): For Gstaad, it is a strong signal. A festival that has attracted guests from over 75 countries for more than 20 years is now relocating entirely here. We are talking about an international audience travelling to the Saanenland each March.

Why the Eggli?

ML: The Eggli offers exactly what defines Caprices: a spectacular 360-degree panorama, an iconic mountain location and optimised infrastructure. The gondola reaches the summit in just seven minutes – and will operate continuously from midday until 4am. That is a major difference compared to the past. Guests can remain on the mountain day and night.

VS: Most importantly, we can now operate all stages permanently at the summit. In Crans-Montana, we had to move down into the resort in the evening. Here, the entire festival experience remains on the mountain – with uninterrupted alpine views. It is not only atmospherically unique but also an organisational advantage.

What can visitors expect?

ML: Three distinct glasshouse stages, each with its own identity:
– Peak Stage for large-scale shows with panoramic alpine views
– CNTRL Stage for intimate, extended sets and exclusive back-to-back performances
– Ridge Stage for more experimental sounds

VS: The transparent structures have been our signature for over 20 years. People dance while looking out over the mountains. That fusion of nature and music is the DNA of Caprices.

The line-up reads like a who’s who. What are you particularly proud of?

ML: Our ambition has always been to unite different generations and styles. In 2026, we will bring more than 100 artists to Gstaad. Icons such as Sven Väth, Ricardo Villalobos and Swiss artist Luciano – performing in a special back-to-back set with Dennis Cruz – as well as Jamie Jones, have been part of the Caprices family for years.

At the same time, artists such as Vintage Culture, Josh Baker, Prospa, Rossi, Shimza and MAU P represent the new generation of electronic music. This balance between legends and future voices is very important to us.

VS: Sven Väth – one of the “godfathers” of electronic music – also has a personal connection to the region, as his son is growing up here.

Do the two weekends differ musically?

ML: Yes. The first weekend, from 13 to 15 March, is more techno- and house-oriented, with melodic elements – focused and club-driven. The second weekend, from 20 to 22 March, broadens the spectrum, spanning house, minimal and Afro-inspired grooves. Each weekend will develop its own atmosphere.

VS: Advance sales are strong for both weekends, which we are particularly pleased about. The community understands the move and is embracing Gstaad as the new home of Caprices.

What is the economic significance for the region?

VS: A substantial one. We are working with a budget of nearly CHF 3 million. Around 250 people are involved in this edition – many from the region. We effectively extend the winter season to the end of March. Hotels are already heavily booked. The festival generates frequency not only on event days but also before and after. It transforms a traditionally quieter March into an active month.

ML: Our target audience may also expand. Compared to Crans-Montana, we are geographically closer to German-speaking Switzerland. Travel from Zurich, for example, is significantly shorter. This opens new domestic markets.

How is a festival of this scale financed?

ML: Primarily through ticket sales, sponsorship and gastronomy. Artist fees are the largest budget item – with over 100 acts, this represents a considerable investment.

How closely is the region involved?

VS: Very closely. Over the past three years, starting with the September edition, we have built a local structure. Many Gstaad residents are now part of the team and hold responsibility in key areas. The festival is rooted in the region – and at the same time international.

ML: That combination is essential. International expertise meets strong local anchoring.

Safety is a sensitive topic for large-scale alpine events. How do you address it?

ML: Safety comes first. We work closely with the Municipality of Saanen, tourism authorities, the Canton of Bern and all relevant agencies. Our safety concepts are detailed – from evacuation scenarios and fire protection to crowd-control systems.

VS: The infrastructure at the Eggli is ideal. In addition to the main gondola, the second cableway to Rüberldorf is available. We have comprehensive emergency plans, trained personnel and state-of-the-art technology in place. Every guest should feel safe – and be safe.

What about accommodation and logistics?

ML: The region offers a wide range of accommodation, from five-star hotels to more accessible options. Apartments and chalets are also available via platforms linked through the Caprices website to simplify the search.

VS: A shuttle bus system connects Saanen, Rougemont, Schönried, Saanenmöser, Lauenen, Zweisimmen and Gsteig with the festival – during the day and at night.

And for those who are not ready to go home at 4am?

VS: Afterparties will take place at the Ferme Saint-Amour – the former Chlösterli – a nostalgic venue for many. Celebrations continue into the early hours. And sometimes, if the moment feels right, a major DJ might spontaneously play another set there. It is never guaranteed – but when it happens, it is one of those “you had to be there” moments.

Finally, what do you hope for the premiere in March 2026?

ML: That people feel why Caprices has endured for more than 20 years – because of its community, its music and its unique atmosphere.

VS: And that on the Monday after the festival, people remember not just one evening, but two full weeks during which Gstaad truly comes alive: full terraces, full hotels, full gondolas. That is the energy we want to bring to the region in March.

Read more on https://capricesfestival.com/events/caprices-winter-gstaad