Zibelemärit (Onion Market)
Zibelemärit (Onion Market) is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Bern audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~180 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type market
- Suggested visit ~180 min
- Bern Bern guide
About Zibelemärit (Onion Market)
Bern's most beloved annual festival, held every fourth Monday in November, when up to 100 tonnes of decorated onion braids fill the old town streets in a centuries-old tradition unique to Bern.
The Zibelemärit, Onion Market, is Bern's most beloved annual festival and one of the most distinctive market traditions in Switzerland. Held on the fourth Monday of November every year, the market transforms the Bern old town as farmers from the surrounding Bernese Mittelland arrive to sell onions in dozens of forms: braided, decorated, woven into fantastical shapes. Up to 100 tonnes of onions, garlic, and other vegetables are sold on a single day by around 500 vendors. The origins of the market are traditionally dated to the aftermath of the great Bern fire of 1405, when farmers from the nearby canton of Fribourg helped rebuild the city and were granted the right to sell freely in Bern's markets. The day also features confetti-throwing battles across the city, attracting tens of thousands of visitors.
Did you know? Up to 100 tonnes of onions are sold at the Zibelemärit on a single November day by approximately 500 vendors, making it one of Switzerland's largest single-day markets.
How long should you spend at Zibelemärit (Onion Market)?
Plan about ~180 min at Zibelemärit (Onion Market). That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Zibelemärit (Onion Market) worth visiting?
Zibelemärit (Onion Market) is one of the 22 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Bern, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Bern
Hear the story of Zibelemärit (Onion Market)
Preview the Bern tour free in the Gingerguide app.