The 20th edition of the Brocante market was a resounding success, set against the backdrop of a picture-perfect day. With sunshine, happy faces, and a vibrant atmosphere, the event exceeded expectations in every way.

Preparations for the event began as early as five o’clock in the morning. Approximately 140 stallholders diligently set up their booths to display their valuable wares to the eager visitors of Brocante Saanen. The tradition of welcoming traders with coffee and croissants, a practice that started with the first Brocante in 2004, continued to add a warm touch to the morning.
The market’s reputation has grown far and wide, attracting vendors from across Switzerland and various parts of Europe. This year, the event featured stalls from Liechtenstein, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, showcasing a truly international array of rarities and collectibles.

The expected number of visitors of around 2500 was far exceeded. Despite this impressive turnout, Niclas Baumer, one of the organisers, emphasised that the aim is not to expand further. “Quality is better than quantity,” he stated, noting that the current number of stands and visitors has reached full capacity. The high demand for market stands at Brocante is evident, with a waiting list in place for eager vendors.

The 20th Brocante market was a memorable event, blending tradition with a vibrant, international atmosphere. With perfect weather, a record number of visitors, and high-quality stalls, it was a fitting celebration of this beloved market's milestone anniversary.

How it all began

It all started in the summer of 2013 when Jacqueline Jaggi, Ruth Knutti, Noëlle de Kostine, and Arthur Reuteler happened to meet over a glass of wine. During their conversation, they shared a common vision: the Saanenland should have an annual summer gathering place for both locals and guests. They quickly realised that summer presented a unique opportunity. Traders, unable to showcase their goods in the lowlands and towns during this season, would likely welcome the chance to participate in such an event. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and by August 2014, the first edition had already become a success.

The weather that year was ideal—pleasantly warm but not too hot, with no rain—a sign that St. Peter had favoured Saanenland. Only three editions have faced unfavourable weather conditions since then. Each year, more traders have joined, filling every available public space in the village. Today, the market offers a wide range of goods, including jewellery, clothing, decorations, carvings, food, drinks, crockery, books, pictures, handicrafts, toys, and more. The variety of stallholders continues to evolve, bringing fresh energy to the event.

The village is now filled with smiling faces, hundreds of visitors, and enthusiastic traders each year. The organisation has since passed to a younger generation from Saanen, allowing the original founders to enjoy the event from a new perspective. This year, the four of us celebrated another successful edition of the Brocante with a glass of champagne, delighting in how far the event has come.
 

Participate!
If you had a lovely day at the Brocante, found something unique, sold something special, or enjoyed the experience, please send us an email at editor@gstaadlife.com. We would love to share your stories and photos online.

BASED ON AVS | Elisa Oppermann, Noëlle de Kostine, Jeanette Wichmann