On July 9, 2023, the time had come: The Oberländische Schwingfest in Frutigen started. And as is the fashion, it started early in the morning. When we arrived at the scene at 7:15 am, most of the seats were already occupied. Luckily, Brigitta got tickets for us in advance; so, we had a seat for sure.

We had a bag with us filled with what habitués have with them when they go to a wrestling festival: cheese, sausage, bread and a plate to serve the food on. Also, a cool bottle of white wine and water. (Friends who attend more wrestling festivals than we did gave us the tip!)

On this wonderful Sunday, we also needed shade – our Panama hats were just the thing. During the one-hour lunch break, we opened an umbrella that only discreetly advertised Swiss Life. In contrast to football pitches, advertising on swing pitches is not only frowned upon but also forbidden. A couple who had opened a promotional umbrella was promptly warned by the speaker to fold it up! Where can you find something like this? On the wrestling courts!

PS. If you want to know more about the Swiss wrestling, you can read here.