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FamilyPro  is a local-based consultancy supporting families with childcare, housework, elder care, and home admin. From navigating local crèches and hiring nannies to handling contracts, permits, and payroll, they offer expert, personalised guidance making life in Switzerland easier and more manageable. Services are available in English, French, Arabic, and Italian. Website: www.familypro.ch Contact:  info@familypro.ch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/familypro-sàrl/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/familypro.sarl

We all know Migros for the go-to weekly shop, or if you live nearby like I do, the daily one. But there’s a whole lot more to this Swiss giant than bread rolls and barcodes. Founded in 1925, Migros has grown from a single delivery truck in Zurich to one of the country’s most trusted names. As we welcome Migros as a sponsor of Living In Nyon , we’re pulling back the curtain on one of Switzerland’s most quietly radical institutions. Because behind the iconic orange logo is a 100-year-old story of vision, values, and care. Migros isn’t just your local supermarket. It’s a pioneer in culture, cooperation, and social progress @Migros A Cooperative From Day One Way before “co-op” became a buzzword in start-up culture, Migros founder Gottlieb Duttweiler was thinking differently. In 1941, he gave the company away, quite literally, transforming Migros into a cooperative owned by its customers and employees. His aim? To serve people, not just profit and is grounded in the idea of shared benefit. The values he put in place to promote the co-existence of all cultures; accessibility, affordability, and community still shape everything Migros does today. What Is Migros Commitment? Every year, Migros reinvests around 140 million CHF into society through what’s now known as the Migros Commitment . That’s more than a slogan, it’s a vast umbrella of initiatives that reach far beyond retail. It spans education, the arts, innovation, the environment and more. It promotes culture, funds bold social projects, and helps people live healthier lives. Here's how it happens: The Migros Culture Percentage Officially introduced in 1957 (but inspired by Duttweiler’s thinking as early as the 1940s), this programme dedicates a percentage of Migros’ annual revenue to cultural and social projects. In real terms, for every CHF 100 you spend at Migros, roughly CHF 1 goes directly into enriching Swiss society. Gottlieb Duttweiler, who died in 1962 aged 74 @Migros This adds up to about CHF 121 million per year funding everything from parks and public concerts to the Ecole-Club Migros (which began offering affordable French and English classes back in 1944), museums, music festivals, and even contemporary art spaces. Since its launch, the Culture Percentage has invested over CHF 5.4 billion into Switzerland’s cultural and social fabric. That’s a big impact, quietly made. A 1944 Migros newspaper ad announces the launch of affordable language courses for cooperative members, offering classes in Italian, French, English, Spanish, and Russian for just 5 francs a month. @ Migros The Migros Pioneer Fund This is where innovation meets impact. Launched in 2012, the Pioneer Fund backs people with bold ideas that solve social problems. It's not afraid to take risks and is designed to support projects that tackle social and environmental challenges with fresh thinking and many of today’s most exciting community-driven projects got their start here. The Migros Aid Fund Since 1979, this fund has been supporting social and environmental projects, both in Switzerland and abroad. From  improving food security, championing women’s rights, or protecting biodiversity, the focus is always on meaningful, lasting impact. Why It Matters? Especially here in Nyon At LIN we value local connection, culture, and a sense of belonging, so Migros’ ethos feels right at home. From supporting Usine à Gaz to backing sustainability initiatives like Too Good To Go and La Banque Alimentaire, they’re not just present in the region, they’re a part of it. In the months ahead, we’ll dive deeper into the Migros story: exploring their impact, meeting the people behind the projects, and shining a light on what a true community-first business looks like. But for now, the next time you pick up your groceries, remember: your yoghurt and veggies are funding a whole lot more than dinner for you and your family. They’re helping fund education, art, inclusion, and opportunity, not just in Switzerland but right here in Nyon.

A Panel Discussion Hosted by Living In Nyon. In a world shaped by rapid change, hybrid workplaces, and AI-powered decisions, the definition of effective leadership is being rewritten. Today’s leaders face complexity like never before. This panel explores what it really takes to lead with clarity, purpose, and adaptability. Whether you're leading a team, a company, or your own career, this evening will offer insight, connection, and the kind of conversation that sparks real change. This isn’t just another panel. This is a conversation you need to be in.   Date: Wednesday 3rd September 2025 Time: 18:00 to 21:00 Venue: a.one Business Parc, Z. A. La Pièce 4, 1180 Rolle Price: CHF 30 (includes apéro ) Meet The Panel: Gaëlle Devins Ga ë lle Devi ns A powerhouse in executive coaching and transformation. A corporate leader, executive coach, founder, thought leader, consultant, author, and speaker. She is currently serving as Chief Customer Officer & Member of the Executive Bo ard at Breitling and also sits on the Advisory Board of ICG Crimson Galleries LLC. Ga ë lle brings sharp insight into what modern leaders need to thrive. She's known for turning potential into performance and guiding leaders through complex change. Guido Gianasso Guido Gianasso Professor of Leadership at HEC Paris and former CHRO of the International Air Transport Association, Guido blends global HR expertise with academic depth. He’ll unpack leadership from a global, future-ready perspective. Andrea Gerosa Andrea Gerosa Social entrepreneur and founder of ThinkYoung, Andrea brings the voice of youth into leadership. He’s all about bridging generations and designing inclusive, forward-looking strategies. Barbara Lax Barbara Lax Founder of Little Green House, Barbara is an award-winning entrepreneur who knows how to lead with purpose, vision, and heart. Her experience blends business acumen with human-centric leadership. Moderator: Mike Mansell With a sharp wit and deep facilitation skills, Mike knows how to spark real dialogue. He’ll keep the conversation engaging, insightful, and a little unpredictable. Here’s what to expect on the night: 18:00–18:30  | Doors open & arrival 18:30–18:40  | Welcome & introduction by Living in Nyon 18:40–19:20  | Individual interviews with panellists, hosted by Mike Mansell 19:20–19:50  | Panel discussion & audience Q&A 19:50–20:00  | Closing remarks by Living in Nyon 20:00–21:00  | Networking apéro   Come for the insights. Stay for the conversations and the connections (and yes, the wine!). Secure your ticket.

@Ville de Nyon Looking for a local way to celebrate Swiss National Day this year? Nyon has a full day of activities planned for Friday 1 August , starting with a morning gathering and ending with fireworks by the lake. Morning Ceremony Things kick off at 10:15 a.m.  on the Esplanade des Marronniers  with an ecumenical celebration ( a religious event or service that involves or is open to people from different Christian denominations ). After the ceremony, the Municipality will offer a free aperitif for everyone. If it rains, the event moves indoors to the town hall at Perdtemps. Evening Events Festivities resume in the evening at the same location with another aperitif at 7:45 p.m. , accompanied by the Nyon Municipal Band. Children will be given small Swiss flags to wave. The official ceremony  begins at 8:25 p.m.  with speeches, music, and the traditional reading of the Federal Pact of 1291. Mayor Daniel Rossellat will preside over the official programme, opened with the ringing of church bells and musical accompaniment by the band. Muriel Cardinaux, President of the Municipal Council, will read the Federal Pact of 1291 , followed by a patriotic prayer, a pastoral message from Pastor Sarah‑Isaline Golay (EERV), and a patriotic address by Jean Studer. The ceremony concludes with the Swiss national anthem. Procession and Fireworks At around 9:15 p.m. , a torchlit procession led by the band will make its way through town to the Place des Fêtes de Rive . Expect some road closures along the route. Once at the Rive, the evening continues with food stalls, drinks, music, and dancing organised with the support of local lakefront associations. The fireworks and bonfire  will start at 10:15 p.m. , and Nyon Castle will be lit up in red and white to mark the occasion. A Quick Look at the History The 1st August is Swiss National Day, an official National Holiday since 1994. It celebrates the day in 1291 that the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden signed the Letter of Confederation, pledging to help each other in the case of an attack.There are many ways of celebrating this day throughout the country within the cantons and each one has their own unique ways; brunch at your local farm, traditional musical performances, parades, bonfires, fireworks, children carrying lanterns with the Swiss flag and friends and families getting together. Happy Swiss National Day From Living In Nyon!

Thursday 1st August 2024 is Swiss National Day – an official National Holiday since 1994. It celebrates the day in 1291 that the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden signed the Letter of Confederation, pledging to help each other in the case of an attack.There are many ways of celebrating this day throughout the country within the cantons; brunch at your local farm, bonfires, fireworks, children carrying lanterns with the Swiss flag and friends and families getting together. Political Commitment is in the Spotlight this year in Nyon Nyon’s National Day will highlight the contributions of two important people: Ms. Jessica Jaccoud, a National Councilor and former member of both the Grand Council and Nyon’s Municipal Council, and Mr. Daniel Grosjean, President of the Municipal Council. The event, led by Mr. Olivier Riesen, Municipal Councilor, will start on the Esplanade des Marronniers and move to the Rive area in the evening for fireworks and a bonfire. Children will receive flags, and there will be a lantern-making workshop at the Musée du Léman for a fun, creative activity. Ecumenical Celebration The Municipality-organized National Day will kick off at 10:15 on the Esplanade des Marronniers with an ecumenical celebration which is a religious event or service that involves or is open to people from different Christian denominations.  In the event of rain, it will move to the town hall in Perdtemps. Following the ceremony, participants can enjoy an aperitif, fostering a friendly community atmosphere. Evening Aperitif At 19:45, the City of Nyon will host a popular aperitif on the Esplanade des Marronniers, accompanied by the lively tunes of the Municipal Band. Children in attendance will be given flags to wave in celebration. Official Ceremony The official ceremony, commencing at 20:25, will be inaugurated by the pealing bells of the temple and Catholic church, harmonized with the Municipal Band and the Nyon Singers. Highlights include: Reading of the Federal Pact of 1291 by Mr. Daniel Grosjean. Patriotic Prayer and message from Mr. Kevin Bonzon, Pastor at the EERV. Patriotic speech by Ms. Jessica Jaccoud. Closing with the national anthem. Procession Around 21:15, a procession led by the Nyon Abbey and the Municipal Band will depart from the Esplanade des Marronniers to Place des Fêtes de Rive. The procession will follow the Route du Cordon, Quais Louis-Bonnard and Quais des Alpes, and Rue de Rive, with traffic halted during this time. Fireworks and Bonfire At 22:15 down at the lake will be the much anticipated spectacular fireworks display and a traditional bonfire. Nyon Castle will be beautifully decorated with the colors of the federal flag. Lantern-Making Workshop In preparation for the festivities, the Musée du Léman will host a lantern-making workshop on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from 14:00 to 16:00.  Children aged 4 and above, with or without parental accompaniment, can decorate and assemble their own lanterns. The two-hour workshop costs 7 francs per lantern, including a snack. To register, contact the museum by phone, email, or visit their website. Phone: 022 316 42 50 Email: info@museeduleman.ch Happy Swiss National Day!

What happens when 30 talented young performers come together to stage one of the world’s most iconic musicals? You get the kind of production that stirs the soul and brings a whole community to its feet. This summer, GAOS (Geneva Amateur Operatic Society) is bringing Les Misérables: School Edition  to Nyon and it’s a show you won’t want to miss. Not just because of its unforgettable music and emotional depth, but because of the passion powering it behind the scenes. At the helm is director Sarah Irwin , who first stepped onto a GAOS stage at the age of five. Since then, she’s done it all; performing, building sets, calling cues, and even (accidentally) painting herself while working on props. These days, she juggles her love of theatre with roles as a PE teacher, netball coach, and after-school musical theatre teacher at Collège du Léman. This is her second time directing for the GAOS Youth Company last year it was High School Musical . This year, she’s taking it up a gear. A Musical with Muscle Why Les Misérables ? “It's my all-time favourite show,” says Sarah. “The music, the story, the emotion - it’s powerful. So when GAOS asked me to direct the school edition, I was honoured.” Due to the ongoing international tour, rights to the full version are restricted. But the youth edition, exclusively available to under-18 performers, gave GAOS the perfect opportunity to challenge their cast with something bold, dramatic, and deeply human. “The show’s themes - hope, resilience, and injustice, are timeless. We all face tough moments, and Les Mis  reminds us that holding onto hope and looking out for each other can really make a difference.” Sarah Irwin Director. Sarah also played Wishee Washee in the GAOS production of Aladdin. A Global Story With Local Heart First staged in Paris in 1980, Les Misérables  has become one of the world’s most beloved musicals. Translated into 22 languages, seen by over 130 million people, and winner of more than 100 international awards. Set in 19th-century France and based on Victor Hugo’s masterpiece, it follows the journey of Jean Valjean, a man seeking redemption in a world stacked against him. Its score is legendary, featuring unforgettable songs like: I Dreamed a Dream On My Own Bring Him Home One Day More Master of the House With Boublil and Schönberg (both French creators) at the helm and an original Paris production directed by Robert Hossein, Les Misérables  is a musical that lives and breathes the human spirit. Now, this powerful story is finding new life in Nyon through the voices of its youngest performers. Young Cast, Big Feelings How do teens connect with such epic storytelling? Sarah asked her cast directly Teenagers still have that youthful wonder. We see problems and want to change things, that makes us connect deeply with the story. Just look at youth-led movements around the world. - Luke  (Javert) As teens, we definitely feel things intensely, adds. I’ve seen friends act just as dramatically in love as Éponine! I just draw on that energy from real life. - Morwenna  (Éponine) Their answers reflect what Sarah sees every week in rehearsal: real emotional engagement, commitment, and a hunger to perform from the heart. Behind the Curtain. Flags, Paint, and Countryside Runs Rehearsals have been anything but dull. In fact, laughter has been just as vital as lines. One of the actors, Sam, keeps waving random objects; disco balls, ladles, umbrellas, etc instead of a flag during scenes. It's become a game now as to how long it will take people to notice! There are post-rehearsal countryside runs where scenes are re-enacted mid-jog, moments of spontaneous games, and yes some paint-related mishaps. It’s in these moments, with the joy, the silliness, the teamwork, that theatre comes alive. Why It Matters for Nyon Sarah believes this production is a gift to the local community. It’s powerful. It’s moving. And it’s accessible. “This version is a little shorter (about 2h30 including intermission) and more affordable than a professional production, so it’s perfect for families". And who knows, someone in the audience might get inspired to try theatre themselves. On stage or backstage, this could be their entry point. It takes hundreds of hours and a huge team to bring a show like this to life. By coming to see it, you’re not just watching you’re supporting local talent. Some of these young performers may go on to incredible things. This is your chance to say, 'I saw them before they made it big'. Whether it’s your first time seeing Les Mis , or your tenth, you’re guaranteed to leave humming the songs and feeling good inside. And in a region like Nyon, where creativity and community thrive, this feel-good ripple effect matters. Show Details Les Misérables: School Edition by the GAOS Youth Company 📅 August 29–31, 2025 📍 Théâtre de Marens , Nyon 🎟️ Tickets on sale via gaos.ch Performances include evening shows plus a Saturday matinee which is ideal for families! WIN Tickets! We’re giving away 2 complimentary tickets to the Saturday 30 August, 14:00 matinee performance! To enter, just answer this question: What is the nationality of the creators of Les Misérables? Fill out the form by midday Friday, 15 August 2025 .

If you’ve been to a local festival lately - from Gland’s American Backstage to the Fan Zone for Euro 2024 you may have spotted a group cheering, dancing, and energising the crowd with high-flying routines. Meet Cheerlacote , the cheerleading team based in Begnins, and one of the region’s dynamic youth sports groups. What is Cheerlacote? Founded in the La Côte area by Geraldine Schauenberg and Nadine Magnin, Cheerlacote is open to girls and boys aged 9 to 16. Their mission is to make cheerleading accessible, fun, and empowering for local youth. But forget the pom-poms clichés, this is a serious sport, combining gymnastics, dance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and teamwork. Cheerleading is as athletic as it is artistic. Think pyramids, flips, jumps, and sharp synchronised moves all while keeping that big team spirit alive. It’s about precision, trust, and having each other’s backs (literally, in some stunts). Based in Begnins, Rooted in Community Though their routines are sharp and their presence feels pro, Cheerlacote is very much a local team with community spirit at its core. They train in Begnins, but you’ll see them performing across the region bringing hype, energy, and a whole lot of flair to events big and small. Whether it’s cheering on Switzerland during the Euros or firing up the crowd at local sports days, Cheerlacote isn’t just about competition, they’re about connection. Open to anyone with or without experience Cheerlacote regularly offers free trial sessions. It’s a great way for kids to test the sport, make new friends, and build confidence in a supportive environment. With structured training and experienced coaching, beginners are quickly brought up to speed, flipping optional (for now). More Than Just Moves: Life Skills in Action Aside from the high-energy routines, Cheerlacote teaches valuable life skills. Teamwork is central, nobody stunts alone. Add in coordination, discipline, physical fitness, and trust, and you’ve got a sport that develops both body and mindset. It’s also a great confidence builder. Kids learn to support each other, perform in front of crowds, and push their limits, safely and positively. Backed by the Swiss Cheer Association Cheerlacote is affiliated with the Swiss Cheer Association, which ensures proper training standards and safety practices. It also opens the door for teams to eventually take part in regional and national competitions. Want to Join or Watch? For updates, photos, and sign-up details, check out their Facebook page , Instagram page or their website .

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If you live in Nyon or the surrounding region you will know that this week is a very special week in the Nyon Calendar -  It's Paléo Week! Back after a two year hiatus for the 45th edition of the rock festival, there is a buzz in the air of anticipation for all that is to come.   @Paléo 1976 So how did it come to pass that Paléo, now the biggest music festival in Switzerland and major open- air festival in Europe came to the town of Nyon? Well we’ll tell you… It started out as a Folk Festival in 1976, the first one was held in the old Nyon Town Hall, with an audience of 1,800 spectators. After the success of the first one, it was then moved outdoors to Colovray down by the lakeside with just two stages. As the festival grew, it moved to its current home in the north of Nyon in Plaine de l'Asse in 1990 - with seven stages and covering 84 hectares of land! For the 40th Edition of the festival, Paléo released a montage of films in celebration. Daniel Rossellat, President of the festival and Mayor of Nyon is seen at the beginning of the film announcing the first Folk Festival to the press in 1976! Paléo brings in thousands of intergenerational spectators every year. Festival goers who came in their youth are now partying alongside their own children who have come of age. Some die-hard revellers are all in with their week long passes, making sure they squeeze out every last drop of the festivities. Others may be more choosy, selecting a couple of specific nights to see one of their favourite artists perform. Not to mention a massive number of the festival goers who set up camp at the campsite, known to be a festival within a festival. Paléo lasts for six days and six nights, with seven stages across 84 hectares of land including the camp site and the parking and it all ends in a massive display of fireworks before the final main stage artist on the Sunday night. Musical Artists Over the years the festival has hosted iconic international musicians such as Miles Davis in 1990, James Brown, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Elton John, Robbie Williams and Iron Maiden. And this year will be no different with musical artists KISS, Sting and Stromae as part of the line-up for 2022. It is also a fantastic platform for up and coming musicians and local bands and artists to showcase their talents. Equally for us as spectators it is a great way to discover new artists as we wander through the festival in and out of the tents throughout the nights. To give you an idea of the immensity of Paléo  and how much it has grown since 1976 here are some stats! Since 1976 44 festivals 3'734 singers, bands or companies 5'482 concerts and shows on stage 6'896'154 spectators The last Paléo Festival in 2019 230'000 spectators over 6 days 1,384 musicians and technicians 277 shows on 7 stages including dozens of animations 4,890 volunteers 9,000 campers A ground of 84 hectares (including camping and parking spaces) 222 food stalls and 57 bars Volunteers The thousands of volunteers who come from all over each year for this special event are a big part of the festival's success, often choosing to volunteer year after year due to the legendary experience! If volunteering sounds like something you want to be a part of take note, registrations open online at the end of April. Not just music! As well as the diversity of musical genres on offer, Paléo is also known for its street and circus art, food stands from all over the world. Each year the Village du Monde is dedicated to a country or region in the world where you can not only sample the music but the culture, food and drink as well. With over a hundred food stalls, a day-care centre, a children's area and a free camping site, Paléo really caters to everyone's needs. Inhabited by unusual artists, La Ruche is a secret garden where the most beautiful fantasies of Circus and Street Art flourish.  Read more about La Ruche and the man behind it Patrick Chambaz in his interview with Living in Nyon here . Inside La Ruche is a dedicated space for young children between 6 and 12 years old and families called Mielimélo.  It’s open every day until 22:00 and offers a smoke and alcohol free area, away from the bands and music.  There is also a space for the 12- 18 year olds called La Plage, offering entertainment and a games programme and a bar that features non-alcoholic drinks at low prices. Admission into the festival is free for children under 12. Not only has the music made up part of Paléo's history so to has the weather. From heatwaves to torrential rain, this year is no different with temperatures into the 30s this week. But the show must and will go on! Welcome Back Paléo! Read about all what's new for Paléo 2022 here

As the weekend approaches and we are well into the swing of Paléo this year, parents sometimes wonder just how kid friendly the festival actually is? Well that is the beauty of Paléo - a true inter-generational festival that caters for all, including our young party goers. Continuously handing over the baton to the next generations of revellers is what keeps the Paléo festival evolving and growing as it has. Read on to find out how child-friendly it is and what is available to them. Setting up the Paléo entrance Admission Let's just start with admission which is free for children under 12 who are accompanied by an adult. For 12 - 18 years olds, the admission cost is at the student price. Baby Friendly There is the Bar à Bébés  which is located between the Latin Quarter and the name of the stand is Esprit Sage-femme . This spot is available to parents with children aged 0 - 4 years old. You can feed your baby and they will refrigerate milk until 01:00.  There are free nappies available and a changing place. If you find your young child is getting tired you can even borrow a pushchair or babycarrier with a deposit. Child Minding Service La Luciole is a daycare centre that will look after your children up to the age of 8 years old for three hours, so you can take some kid-free time to enjoy the festival. They offer games and entertainment, including treasure hunts and crafts. It's open until 22:00. For their full programme click here. La Ruche This family zone is dedicated to street and circus art for children aged 6-12 years old and also any big kids! Inside is Mielimélo which offers a a smoke and alcohol free space, away from the loudness of the big stages where you can enjoy games and workshops and lots of entertaining shows. La Plage For those tweens and teens La Plage is the place for them. Situated next to the HES-SO area, this is a cool space for these younger folk to chill, play some games and enjoy some entertainment. They also have their own bar that features non-alcoholic drinks at low prices! For 12 - 18 year olds and it's open until 02:00. Some Extra Tips Grab a sticker or make your own for your child and add your name and phone number onto them just in case you get separated. For older children, set up a meeting point in case you get separated - the water fountain at the entrance is a good spot! Take ear protectors for your child if you plan on being really close to the big stages. You can also purchase these from the Paléo Shop. They have ear plugs for free but the headphones you have to buy. Take your water bottles as they can be refilled at all toilets as the tap water is drinkable. Paléo has no age limit and is truly for everyone!

In the heart of Nyon lies the legendary music festival that has captivated generations for its 46 editions. We had the chance to sit down with one of Paléo Festival’s originators, an individual who wears many hats within our community. President of the Nyon Tennis Club, a dedicated (though now recently retired) Sports TV journalist for 35 years as well as football and tennis commentator. He also set his sights on becoming part of Nyon’s Municipality (executive body), running for a seat earlier in 2023 in the by-elections.  Despite not achieving that particular goal, his unwavering spirit and passion for fostering unity and joy through music as well as sport have been integral to his enduring success. Vice President from 1977 until 1982, one of the originals from Paléo who is still involved to this day, giving guided tours to newcomers and continuing its legacy. He talks about how he got involved in Paléo, his cherished moments from over the years, what he does now and his thoughts for its future. Pierre-Alain Dupuis You were there from the early days of the Paléo Festival, how did you become involved? To be really honest, the first ever concert organised by Daniel Rossellat (President of Paléo Festival) was in ’73. I was a close friend to Daniel but I was playing soccer in Nyon so I was not involved. But at the age of 20, after they had organised the first one in the Salle Communal, I met Daniel who said, I think we have to go out into the open air - and so we went to Colovray down next to the swimming pool. He said I need people with a lot of energy, a solid committee – are you OK to be with me? Wow i thought, it’s a great idea – I’m ready to be your right arm because Jacques (Monnier) who makes the programme was in France. So, I was the Vice President. I got involved and put all my energy in this first open air festival. There were 5 of us and we expected 18 hundred people and we had nearly 18 thousand! Back then you had to organise it last minute, by the telephone boxes, asking if you have a car to rent me and so on - just incredible. We were very lucky, I think we were good but we also had three days of sunshine. If you had one day of rain people would just look at the weather and they would not come.  It’s not the case today. Today the tickets are sold out in 41 minutes! So just a huge success and we were very proud of that and we decided to keep going. After 5 years of being Vice President, I was in charge of the artists speaking English and Press Relations. A massive job but volunteering and I was still at university studying and playing football. It was great, it was a passion pushed by the energy and the friendship. It’s the 46 th edition this year. What keeps you coming back after all these years? Because it’s part of me. I have only missed two because of the Olympics.  I like meeting people and there are so many that I only meet once a year here! I am also of a certain help to the organisation. But to be honest, I don’t stay until 3 o'clock in the morning, I choose my nights. We have a tradition on the last Sunday with Daniel, the old guard. We make a fondue at 3am and then after the fondue its 4:30 in the morning ,the sun is rising and you look at the grounds – it’s incredible. You don’t have the feeling that 3 hours ago there was a festival. It’s clean - they have already started the breakdown. I’m sure there are many but what has been one of your highlights? (Long pause) I have a story that I like to tell. In ‘78 we had the group Clannad coming from Ireland. At this time I was in charge of welcoming artists from England and Ireland. I had to go and welcome them and the singer was called Moya Brennan. She was one of the best harpists in the United Kingdom. I went to the airport she was there with a big harp and I was in my father’s car. Of course the harp couldn’t get in the car and so she was desperate. Stay here, I told her, we are going to try to find something. I will bring your musicians to Nyon and come back with a new vehicle and we will make it! After that, I went to their soundcheck and because I was giving her more attention, she said oh he’s nice and we had a love affair! I spent the whole summer touring England at her concerts. It was a big moment and her voice, the way she played the harp, it’s incredible. So this is one of those special memories. Why do you think different generations of people can enjoy Paléo together, safely and freely? Unusual for a music festival. It’s a miracle. At the beginning, the audience was made by teenagers and older people. My father was against Paléo, all the politics guys in Nyon were against Paléo and it was a hard fight to be accepted as well. Accepted as a music festival. It had the bad image, young people with long hair, smoking, hippy. But then things changed…. Ahhh Paléo is fantastic! It brings a lot of animation to Nyon, it’s good for the economy of the area and then people started to go to Paléo in Colovray and they were amazed by the atmosphere. It was peaceful, it was nice, safe and then people were having babies and they came with their babies on their shoulders. We created the nursery, my kids went and then wanted to come back year after year. The story is that now our kids are over 30, they have kids and come with them. You know the 3rd generation. People of my age are just 5 percent of the crowd. But the average age is 30 and 50 percent of the crowd is less than 40 years old. What was kind of genius of Daniel Rossellat was he said we have to involve Nyon – the community, the clubs, the volunteers. We gave the clubs (handball, football, ski, tennis...) beverage stands, so they came with their volunteers and they get money back for their clubs. And this was very good, what they make depends on what they sell. They get at least 10, 15k and it’s important for them. During the covid years it was definitely a lack in their revenue. @Paléo Poster from 1978 From 17,500 festival goers to 250,000 this year! Where do you see Paléo in ten years time? I don’t want to say it will stay like it is but it also cannot increase. You don’t have the area, the acres. The danger is, you have so many music festivals now, it’s a question of the music industry. Will Paléo be able to have good artists on the main stage? It's so expensive now. If you don’t give, let’s say 1 million to a big star they will just go to the next festival and I think you need to have good artists. The ambiance, the spirit, this area and everything is great but people look to see who is coming. So I don’t see any change for the next 5 years but if it’s like football, you need the big important people, the Messis and Mbappes. The big artists. Will Paléo be able to pay as much as the others? At a certain period of time we had artists who wanted to play at Paléo – but now it doesn’t matter as much to them because they will play at the next festival instead. And now you do guided tours. It’s a service for the sponsors because they like to have our guests come backstage where the public cannot go, with explanations, stories and figures. But we still can’t go on stage and take selfies with the big stars! More snippets from our conversation. I am a fan of Manchester United. Locally... when I was a kid I was a fan of FC Lausanne-Sport but then I grew up and was a big fan of FC Servette but in my job of commentator, I couldn’t be bias. I like international football and the Women’s World Cup, which has just begun.  I still have an eye on this and tennis of course. I lived through Roger Federer's career – I gave his first interview when he was 16 and I commented in major tournaments . But now I am retired, he is retired and a new life begins for me. Thank you to Pierre-Alain Dupuis who leaves us with a deeper appreciation for Paléo's rich history and its enduring spirit.