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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!

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.

A few weeks have passed since Paléo Festival 2023 ended and since then quite a few people who are yet to attend (bucket list for 2024) have asked me.. What’s it like? Is it mainly for the younger crowd? Who actually goes? I always reply - everyone! It got me thinking, the appeal of Paléo really is to everyone.What I am interested in though, is that special something that allows for festival-goers of all ages to party in the same space without treading or dancing on each other’s toes. This six-day music festival for 250,000 people running since the 70s, held in the small town of Nyon tucked between Geneva and Lausanne. A Family and Community Celebration  I asked a few different people from all different backgrounds what they thought the appeal of Paléo was.Picture this: parents grooving alongside their kids in the 70s and 80s and now those very kids are dancing with their own little ones on their shoulders. What’s the secret? As it goes, there isn’t one – just a simple formula that creates a harmonious space for all. It's a world where the cultural landscape is constantly changing and if you miss a beat, it is easy to get left behind. Beyond the music, there is a deep sense of community among attendees, the 5,000 volunteers and all the local organisations that make it happen each year. @Paléo Music for Every Generation It’s also not that unusual to find 3 generations within a family hanging out together all at the same time. The average age of a Paléo festival-goer hovers around 30 years old, which when you think music festival you immediately think of 20 somethings - not people in their 40s or 50s. The sense of togetherness, friends old and new and strong family connections make this environment. We're all young at heart here. I think for the community – they like to meet up, they like to stroll around. Even though there are 40,000 people you will always bump into somebody and just briefly say hello and it’s the conversations before and after. It’s really part of the community. The weeks before, the tickets, the experience sharing afterwards. I would say it’s a big part of our life here. - Marcello I think it’s an incredible event on our doorstep. I bring my kids as well and there is so much for them at their age between 10 and 12. They can wander off and have their own Paléo experience. It’s safe and accessible for the kids to feel free. - Vish Embracing Change while Respecting Tradition As the world evolves, so has Paléo.  By embracing change and keeping up with trends, the event remains fresh and relevant for younger as well as older attendees. It still keeps the traditions that have become synonymous with the festival experience and perhaps Switzerland as a country too. The fireworks display being one of them. Fast becoming a hot topic in relation to the environment but for now they stay until they find a cost-matching alternative. The first time I came to Paléo I think I was 16 years old (nearly 25 years ago). It was great, really different. Not the same ambiance or atmosphere but still great. We discovered a lot of groups that I didn’t know, like Placebo on tonight. I came back this year for them. It’s fun for everybody for every age. Music style for everybody as well. That’s it! – one festival-goer A Mix of Music and Memories Woven Together The Paléo organisers’ ability to put together a diverse line-up of music that appeals to multiple generations really makes it work. What started off as a folk festival now has an immense Electronic Music Stage in the Belleville that has proven to be a huge success and addition. Artists brought in cover the nostalgic hits bringing familiarity and excitement for the baby boomers whilst also bringing in new and fresh energy and music for the younger generations. It means that each generation finds favourites whilst still discovering new sounds they probably would never have. It's just super awesome, the set up and this family atmosphere, you never see this kind of festival around Europe. I am here for the Queen Rosalia, of course, the Queen of Spain. I’m quite impressed about the restaurants and the food. You came for the music but it’s quite impressive , all the different types of food - Alvarro travelled from Spain especially for the first time to be here. The likes of Indochine or the Black Eyed Peas known from different eras. Same group but totally different audience. This blend of big names alongside lesser-known or upcoming artists ensures something for all musical tastes. Robbie Williams (they said simultaneously). He was a big one. Sting was great as well last year but Robbie was amazing. We normally pick the night where there’s a band we know. It’s nice hearing some of the other bands and discovering new ones like tonight Frank Carter and the Rattle Snakes. They were really good. I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to listen to them but you know maybe now I go and listen on Spotify -  one Barry and Claudia’s favourite memories of Paléo. Our first time here must have been 30 years ago, when we were students in Geneva. The first encounters were linked to a big name and it was also known as a big open air already. Now in recent years you also enjoy more than just the concert but everything around it. -Marcello Paléo’s Inclusive Spaces and Family-Friendly Areas Whether it was planned this way or not, the organiser’s must have realised the magic of a truly multi-generational event lies in creating inclusive spaces. From designated family areas with kid-friendly activities and performances to different zones – food, chilled, shopping. All tailored for festival-goers seeking different atmospheres. I think because they really think about everybody’s needs. You have the La Ruche area and the crèche for babies up 8. It gives the parents a bit of a break and they can go off and have a few hours of freedom. So it’s cool. - Sarah That is particularly true if you look at what day attracts who and what time they tend to arrive or leave. The 10:30pm train home on the weekend is full of the elder generation and families whilst the younger crowd are actually arriving at this time. I think it’s the vibe and the music. If you look at the mix of people here, they don’t tend to be those who partition themselves. You got maybe the 70 year olds, they’re still feeling quite young. - Barry I also think it is a unique event – it becomes very inclusive. I think that is the vibe that is so attractive. It’s a very inclusive environment – everybody is here and at the same time there is a certain element of anonymity as well. - Claudia The Paléo Golden Team setting up the day before the start of the festival I still think there is a number of people who miss out on the biggest event of their home town. Often expats who go back to their home countries to visit friends and family or those who like to take an earlier summer holiday in July. We’re never normally here in the summer as soon as school finishes we’re off for 6 weeks.  A choice of visiting family or staying here and having fun….this year we are here and thought why not make the most of it. No regrets!It’s relaxed, even though there’s a huge crowd, I still feel safe with the kids and it feels like a family event. I love all the kids, they’re having fun. They enjoyed the music. Honestly I kind of feel like it’s a miniature Switzerland and generally I feel safe in Switzerland, I feel like it’s an amazing place to raise your kids . -  Veronika’s first Paléo. Location is also a key factor - As Daniel Rossellat, President of Paléo pointed out that Geneva people don’t want to go to Lausanne and Lausanne people don’t want to go to Geneva. So Nyon is a happy medium. Sustainability and the Future of Paléo Festival Being pioneers in sustainability since 1999 has played a pivotal role in its ongoing success. Pledging to reduce emissions by 25% by the 50th edition is an initiative that aligns with the festival’s commitment to preserving our planet. Festival-goers are a lot more conscious of the environment and their role to play against climate change. Prioritising eco-friendly practices resonates with a growing audience who value responsible events. I think it’s a good festival, I’m really excited being here. I like the atmosphere and the diversity -  there are people 70 years old! I’ve seen young kids and I’ve seen 25 year old people like myself so I think this is awesome. I want to see the king of DJs today – Martin Garrix. I also want to mention the security. It feels like a super safe place – a family event, I know this is Swiss related. - Tino from Romania came to Switzerland to experience the festival. Freedom and Expression Regardless of age, attendees can express themselves freely through their fashion, art, and dance, creating a colourful mix - if you look around, every person is rocking their own style. This freedom creates an atmosphere of openness and respect. People are welcome to participate on their own budget. Yes, you have to buy a ticket but unlike most other festivals or events you can bring in your own food and drink - instead of only being able to purchase these on-site. It does have a little something for the music lover, the different types of music genres. The food lover lots of different variety and diversity of food. The culture and arts lover. There’s a lots of different elements of culture, comedy, art, creativity. Or just come, chill and enjoy a drink and hang out with your buddies. It’s a great place to do it. - Vish Generational gaps more often divide us and the unique appeal of Paléo lies in its ability to bridge these gaps and unite people of all ages through the power of music and shared experiences. Including the diverse range of music and dedicated searches for musical artists from across the globe - the Village du Monde has played host to Brazil, India, China, Western Africa, and South Africa in the past, with 2024 focused on the Balkans.An adaptive approach to change, inclusive spaces, a sense of community, and an atmosphere of freedom – sharing the Swiss values of democracy and just letting people get on with it! Read our article with Pierre-Alain Dupuis – one of the originators of Paléo.

PALÉO LINE-UP Here we go! The Paléo Festival unveils its line-up for the 48th edition and it is set to rock the Plaine de l'Asse from July 22 to 27, 2025. This year blends legendary icons with contemporary trailblazers, promising an unforgettable experience for all music lovers. A Fusion of Musical Titans The festival proudly presents a diverse array of artists including: Rock Legends : Prepare for powerful performances by Queens of the Stone Age and a unique collaboration featuring the Sex Pistols with Frank Carter. Rap Heavyweights : The stage will sizzle with US stars Macklemore and Will Smith , alongside French rap sensations Ninho & Niska , and SDM. Pop Icons : Enjoy the captivating tunes of Clara Lucian i and the evocative sounds of Zaho de Sagazan. Electro Pioneers : Dance the night away with sets from David Guetta and the dynamic duo, Justice. In total, 120 artists from around 30 countries will come together in Nyon, celebrating musical diversity across genres and generations. The Unveiling at Usine à Gaz The line-up announcement at Usine à Gaz was great fun. Each artist's reveal was met with enthusiastic cheers, reflecting the community's passion and excitement. The Press Conference highlighted the harmonious blend of legendary and emerging artists but also set the tone for the festival vibes ahead. Paléo Press Conference at Usine à Gaz What to Do Next: For Bon Flex Ticket Holders If you bought "Bon Flex" vouchers during the Christmas offer, it's time to act! The exchange period is from March 19 to 25, 2025. Redeem your voucher for a ticket to the evening of your choice and secure your spot at this year's festival. And if it was a gift for a loved one, don't forget to remind them! General Ticket Sales For those yet to buy tickets, mark your calendars: official ticket sales commence at noon on March 26, 2025. Be ready to join the virtual queue from 11:45 on paleo.ch . Last year sold out in a record 21 minutes! For more insights into the Paléo Festival, explore any of our previous articles . Simply search "Paléo" on our site and read all about festival's vibrant history and offerings.

Be as excited as this guy! © Paléo / Anne Colliard Why Go Solo? Freedom Beats FOMO As the 47th edition of the Paléo Festival wraps up, I've been reflecting on my experiences of attending the festival solo. When I first mention going alone, people react as if I’ve lost my mind and look at me in shock horror. The notion seems to scream “lonely loser” to them. However, having experienced Paléo both solo and with friends and family, I can confidently say I prefer the freedom and flexibility of exploring on my own. When you're with others, you often spend half your time on the phone or texting, trying to locate each other, especially if you plan to meet on-site. You might end up seeing only parts of performances, usually focusing on the headliners, rather than enjoying the full range of artists you’re interested in. Where Are You?! You might settle for food you don’t really fancy because it’s easier to stand in long queues together, rather than splitting up and having to wait for each other and then regroup to eat. It’s a logistical challenge that often means compromising on what you really want to see, eat or do. Sound familiar? I realised that attending alone is actually awesome and I am going to tell you why! Safety & Security at Paléo Let me start by saying that a significant part of my confidence in doing this comes from the fact that Switzerland's environment feels particularly secure, safe, and reassuring. Paléo is also very well-managed with numerous volunteer staff, check points, and an infirmary on site to assist you. The event app also helps avoid ticket scams, a common issue with last-minute sales and resales. The exceptionally well-run transport systems put in place; the buses, trains, and plenty of car parking spaces add to the overall sense of ease. Plus, if you’re staying in Nyon or neighboring villages, jumping on your bike and cycling down to the festival is quick and easy, making for a convenient and enjoyable journey to and from the event. I’m not sure I’d feel as comfortable going alone elsewhere, but the atmosphere here makes it the perfect playground to try. The Belleville Stage (my favourite) The Joy of Freedom and Flexibility You get to create your own schedule and be spontaneous. Want to spend an extra hour at the Village du Monde or catch an unexpected DJ act on the Belleville stage? You can, without needing to coordinate with anyone else or negotiate meeting times. Navigating Paléo on your own builds confidence and is liberating, allowing you to make decisions on the fly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to discover what you truly love—whether it’s the music, the food, or the various cultural exhibits. Deepening Your Musical Experience Fully immerse yourself in the music. I was able to enjoy every moment of Burna Boy’s afrofusion explosion on Day one, the power of Hirma's DJ set, I sang along to the hits of Nile Rodgers and Chic alongside a sea of other fans and sat, on the now very dry grounds, on the last day with the fabulous operatic tenor Roberto Alagna and friends.   Attending solo lets you move freely between stages, discovering new artists, like an abstract band at the Club Tent that you might have missed in a group setting. Paléo’s rich atmosphere—with its diverse cultural areas like the Village du Monde and La Ruche, can be fully appreciated when you're alone. You can take your time to enjoy the art, food, games and cultural exhibits without feeling rushed.  Catching a relaxed show at La Ruche Making New Friends Attending alone doesn’t mean you have to spend the entire night by yourself. Many people reach out on social media looking for others to meet up with. These spontaneous meet-ups can turn into a quick drink or meal, a shared concert experience, or just a friendly check-in that makes the night more interesting and enjoyable.  Being alone makes you more approachable, and you'll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow festival-goers. I met some amazing people while waiting in line for food or just relaxing on the grass between sets. Then I continued on my way. Just before the Sam Smith concert, I saw a guy on the phone clearly struggling to find his friends in the crowd. Another guy, wrapped in unlit fairy lights, approached him and said, "Hey, just tell them to look for me," then lit himself up like a Christmas tree! It was a sweet gesture and a clever way to stand out in the crowd. Others carried balloons or cuddly toys covered with fairy lights, making it easier to spot each other. Solo Tickets = Easier Access Sometimes it’s hard to secure tickets for the whole family or a group, but that shouldn’t put you off from going. Solo tickets are often easier to find last minute, and going alone ensures you don’t miss out on a particular artist just because your friends or family couldn’t get tickets. Put the feelers out and see if you know anyone else going that same night.  Me, behind the scenes taking a break from all the walking! Ready to Embrace the Adventure? Festival season continues this summer and with it, a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the adventure of going solo and make the most of the diverse experiences these events offer. So next time you're considering attending a festival, don’t shy away from going alone. Try Paléo next year because sometimes the best company is your own.”

Meet Jana Bachollet, Owner of Webulous Jana is the website designer behind Living in Nyon’s fresh new look. With a real feel for both design and community, she helped us bring the site to life in a way that feels both modern and true to its roots. We’re incredibly thankful for her skill, care, and patience throughout the process and we’re so happy to have her as part of the extended LIN family. Keep reading to hear what the redesign process was really like AND to find out about the AI website workshop she’s running right here in Nyon. When I first moved to St-Cergue in 2019, just a short train ride up the mountain from Nyon, I did what most newcomers do, I typed “things to do in Nyon” into Google. Time and again, Living in Nyon  popped up, offering the kind of local knowledge you won’t find in any guidebook. It felt like a friend gently pointing me in the right direction towards the best cafés, weekend activities, and local festivals. I didn’t know it then, but those helpful articles were written by people just like me: expats who had fallen in love with this region. Fast-forward to six months ago, when I first met Mandy and Seema to talk about redesigning the website. We clicked straight away (pun slightly intended). Not just because we all got on so well, but because we shared a vision - of a site that feels current, easy to use, and still community-led. Jana Bachollet - Webulous A Few Things I Learnt About Living In Nyon 🔸 It’s not just a blog.  It’s a hub for the international community in and around Nyon, lovingly built to help people settle in and feel at home. 🔸 Since 2008, nearly 2,000 articles have been published , written by just three contributors. That’s an impressive archive of stories, tips, and local knowledge. And yes, migrating all of that from WordPress to Wix was no small feat! Let’s just say it involved some digital puzzle-solving. 🔸 Redesigning a website is never just about tech.  It’s also about getting crystal clear on what the site stands for and what the audience needs. Seema and Mandy had to rethink, reframe, and rewrite sections to better reflect the heartbeat of this community. And they did. The new  site is lighter, faster, and easier to navigate. But more importantly, it still feels like Living In Nyon . Full of heart, full of community, and ready to welcome the next person searching for a place to belong. If you’re new to the area or you’ve been here a while, I hope this site continues to be the friendly digital guide it was for me when I first arrived. – Jana Curious About Building Your Own Website? Jana is running a hands-on workshop in Nyon to show you how to use AI to build a website, and the best part? No tech background needed! Perfect for small business owners, creatives, or anyone with an idea to share. You’ll leave with the first version of your live site. Wednesday, 18 June 10:00–12:00📍 The Clubhouse: Rue Nicole 3, centre of Nyon Bring your laptop 50 CHF Limited spaces 🔗 Subscribe here: www.themorningai.com

@Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 Ever wondered what the dreamy scent drifting from Bois-Bougy is? Now’s your chance to step inside and see what all the blooming fuss is about! On Friday 20 and Saturday 21 June, the stunning rose garden of Bois-Bougy will open its gates for a rare and final public event: the 6th and last edition of Nyon’s International New Rose Competition . Expect 63 never-before-seen brand new-rose varieties, bred by 24 rose creators from 8 countries all over the globe; from France, the U.S. and Japan to Poland, the Netherlands and Switzerland. And yes, you  get to vote for your favourite! What’s This All About? Since 2020, Nyon has hosted a one-of-a-kind rose competition with a twist: no chemical or biological treatments allowed. Only the strongest, most naturally resilient roses make the cut. That commitment to sustainability has earned international respect and made Nyon a quiet pioneer in the world of horticulture. But all good things must bloom and bow. 2025 marks the final year of the competition, and with it, a celebration of the roses that have flourished under these strict eco-standards. When & Where? Friday 20 June, 16:00–19:00 Saturday 21 June, 10:00–14:00 Bois-Bougy Roseraie, Avenue de Bois-Bougy 5, Nyon Meet the specialists , chat roses, and enjoy a friendly apéro. Two lucky visitors will also win a prize in on-site prize draws  happening: Friday at 18:30 Saturday at 13:30 Oh, and did we mention there’s a People’s Choice Award ? Vote for your favourite rose on the day and help crown the 2025 winner. Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 What Happens Next? Though this marks the final competition, it’s not the end for the roses. The best of the best will live on in Nyon’s public parks, spreading their beauty (and scent) across town for everyone to enjoy. And if you can’t make the open days? Don’t worry, the rosegarden will stay open all summer, Monday to Friday, 08:00–16:00. Stop by with a coffee, a camera, or just soak in a moment of calm. Who’s Behind It All? The competition is organised by Les Amis de la Rose de Nyon (LARN) , a passionate local association launched in 2019 to revive Switzerland’s rose competition tradition. Their mission? To celebrate roses, horticulture, and the beauty of shared green spaces. They also host workshops, talks, and rose-related happenings throughout the year, so stay tuned if you’re feeling horticulturally inspired.

Summer is around the corner and what better way to discover Switzerland than by taking a train and exploring this wonderful country. But where to start?   Help is on hand with “Best Swiss Train Rides”, a new book by British author Diccon Bewes. From the legendary Glacier Express, to the picturesque Centovalli and the Grandiose GoldenPass, it also contains 35 other lesser known and surprising trip suggestions including the train journey from Geneva to Brig. Diccon Bewes The book has a large overview map showing all the train trips, individual route maps, practical advice on tickets, choosing the best seats, sights, and stop-overs (Diccon recommends visiting the Château de Nyon among other castles en-route!).   There’s a suggestion of a trip on the Brienzer Rothorn, an historic steam rack railway, which is free to take on your birthday. On the Monte Generoso you can take a train to a mountain top and stand with one foot in and one foot out of the country!   Or how about a less famous, local line train journey where every stop is announced with a string of notes from a harp. These can be heard on the Yverdons-Les Bains to Sainte Croix line.    Below is a glimpse of two pages from the book. The first is of a train ride from Geneva to Brig. It’s true when he says. “At Cully, the lake is so close you can almost reach out and touch it”. The other image is a description of a ride on the St-Bernard Express.     Regular readers will recall that Living In Nyon often held events  in which Diccon came to Nyon to talk about his books on Swiss politics, Swiss maps, Swiss history and travel in Switzerland.    Diccon speaking at an event in Nyon This book has been published posthumously. Diccon sadly passed away in April 2025 in Bern, in his beloved, adopted country. Diccon became Swiss in 2020. He will be much missed.    “The Best Swiss Train Rides” is available in English, German and French.    In French speaking Switzerland, the book is available in Payot, https://www.lelivre.ch   Books, Books, Books in Lausanne,   https://booksbooksbooks.ch   Librairie la liseuse in Sion, Librairie du Baobac in Martigny.   Here’s a link to Diccon’s other books.