The Battle of the Cows — Sembrancher Union Qualifying Fight
Le Châble, Val de Bagnes (VS)
In canton Valais, each spring, farmers breeding the Eringer cows are organizing a series of cow fights to determine the “Queen of the Queens.” These cows, called “Hérens” in French and named after the Val d'Hérens region of Switzerland, naturally create a hierarchy by jousting to determine the alpha animal, or queen, when they are led to their alpine meadows. The farmers play on this natural behavior of the cows by organizing battles for the Queens. Originally conceived as an event for the farmer’s families, these cow fights since the 1920s have gained popularity, drawing in as many as 50,000 spectators each year.
The competitions begin in autumn with bouts to select the most seasoned queens. In the following spring, these animals then participate in additional bouts from March to the end of April, culminating in a grand finale in early May in Aproz (near Sion). This final has developed into a large folk festival for locals and tourists alike, where thousands of people gather around the arena for a weekend to witness the crowning of the “Queen of Queens.” This year’s National Final takes place on the weekend of May 10 and 11. To learn more about this tradition, read https://www.basellife.com/the-battle-to-crown-the-queen-cow/.
To witness this Swiss tradition, you can attend one of the public jousts in an authentic, traditional, and friendly atmosphere that highlights the local traditions and products of each region. On this weekend, the Sembrancher Hérens Breeding Association invites you to an exceptional weekend dedicated to the queens of their mountains, offering a program rich in traditions and festivities for all those passionate about Valais culture. The first fights start at 9:00 on both Saturday and Sunday. There will be music and dancing, raclette, and plenty of regional foods.
Tickets are CHF 20 for adults, CHF 10 for youths and students, or CHF 35 which includes entrance and a raclette meal.
Where
Le Châble
1934 Val de Bagnes
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