Raclette on the Swiss-French border: a friendly success in Saint-Gingolph
Every year, the raclette festival on the Swiss-French border brings together cheese lovers and curious visitors to Saint-Gingolph, the iconic village on the French-Swiss border. This now unmissable event celebrates the convivial tradition of raclette by bringing together hundreds of participants from both sides of the border. The 2025 edition, held on Sunday, June 1st, confirmed this wonderful tradition with a giant raclette hosted by Jason Chicandier and the presence of the pope of Swiss raclette, Eddy Baillifard de Bruson.
A warm and festive atmosphere
This year, around 600 people responded to the call and enjoyed a day dedicated to sharing and delicious food. More than 400 raclettes were served, accompanied by several hundred kilos of potatoes, a key ingredient of this cheese festival.
Visitors from both countries shared a friendly moment in a festive and warm atmosphere.
A unique raclette in the world of its kind
This gastronomic event isn't just about tasting melted cheese. It celebrates the friendly duel between French raclette and Swiss raclette. Valais raclette, represented by Eddy Baillifard with his rigorously aged cheese, faced off against French raclonette, a small, sliced version that's a huge success.
This culinary encounter allowed gourmets from both countries to taste both versions and savor this shared tradition. The event in Saint-Gingolph clearly stands out from the world's largest raclette, held in March in Martigny (Valais), which remains another beautiful chapter in Swiss cheese history.
A symbolic place: Saint-Gingolph
Saint-Gingolph is a unique village, literally crossed by the French-Swiss border. This is where raclette takes on its full meaning, becoming a culinary bridge between two cultures united by a passion for melted cheese.
The tables set up on either side of the Pont du Moulin allowed guests to be welcomed in a warm and festive atmosphere.
A tempting program around cheese
In addition to the tastings, the day featured concerts and children's entertainment. Raclonette, a mini version of the traditional raclette, was a huge hit with visitors.
Local producers' stalls showcased the finest Swiss and French cheeses, as well as artisanal products from Chablais, such as the famous pickles.
Jason Chicandier livened up the stage with his sharp humor and gastronomic anecdotes, reinforcing the conviviality of the event.
A tradition that continues
This event is much more than just a meal: it's a true celebration of Franco-Swiss conviviality and friendship around melted cheese. It perfectly illustrates how two neighboring countries share this common passion with relish.
Next meeting in 2026, to continue enjoying this beautiful cross-border tradition of raclette in Saint-Gingolph!
