Set against the iconic backdrop of the Matterhorn, Zermatt Unplugged 2026 once again transformed the alpine village into one of Europe’s most unique music destinations. Over five days, the festival brought together international headliners, emerging talents and a carefully curated program that celebrated music in its most authentic, acoustic form.
Among the major acts were Herbert Grönemeyer – performing two special unplugged shows – alongside Placebo, Tom Odell and Emeli Sandé, each creating powerful, stripped-back performances that resonated deeply with the audience. Artists such as Rea Garvey, Mighty Oaks, Starsailor, Nick Mulvey, Isaac Gracie and Kings of Convenience added to the intimate and emotional atmosphere with concerts in smaller, close-up settings.
What makes Zermatt Unplugged truly distinctive is its setup. The festival extended far beyond a single stage, unfolding across 17 indoor and outdoor venues throughout the village and high up in the mountains, with around 120 concerts in total.
The main stage, set in the large festival tent, hosted headline performances, while more intimate venues such as the Vernissage club, the Loft, and the Kapelle Winkelmatten created close connections between artists and audience. Particularly special were the Sunnegga Sessions at over 2,200 metres, where guests experienced live music surrounded by panoramic alpine views – often combined with a scenic mountain ride to reach the venue.
Another highlight was the recreation of the legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, bringing London jazz atmosphere to Zermatt with curated early and late shows. The festival also extended into the social side of the experience, with after-parties, DJ sets and the lively Taste Village adding a dynamic layer to the program.
More than just a music event, Zermatt Unplugged once again demonstrated how a festival can blend world-class performances, intimate settings and a spectacular alpine landscape into a cohesive and memorable experience.
