The Hirsebreifahrt will travel from Zurich to Strasbourg from August 19th to 23rd.

From August 19th to 23rd, 2026, the Hirsebreifahrt will make its grand return between Zurich and Strasbourg. This traditional river journey follows the course of the Swiss rivers and the Rhine to Strasbourg, with several stops planned in Baden, Rheinfelden, and Breisach am Rhein before the final arrival at the Marché aux Poissons in Strasbourg.

This tradition dates back to 1456: according to legend, residents of Zurich carried a cauldron of still-hot millet porridge all the way to Strasbourg to prove the strength of the ties between the two cities and to demonstrate that it was possible to travel that distance in a single day by river.

In Strasbourg, the arrival of the boats will be marked by an official welcome ceremony followed by a parade through the city center. Traditional events will also be held, including water jousting and shooting competitions between clubs from Strasbourg and Zurich.

A unique and festive event celebrating the long-standing friendship between Strasbourg and Zurich.