Two festive days for Saint-Nicolas in Bulle
In the Swiss town of Bulle, the Saint-Nicolas Village celebrations are expanding to two days this year, marking a historic milestone for Les Tréteaux de Chalamala. Founded in 1945, the amateur theatre troupe has long been a cornerstone of cultural life in Gruyère, turning the Saint-Nicolas season into a spotlight for community talent and shared tradition. The 80th anniversary adds extra weight to the program, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy an extended series of performances, parades, and convivial gatherings across the town.
A milestone for a beloved Bullois tradition
Since its inception in 1945, Les Tréteaux de Chalamala have contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of Bulle and the wider Gruyère region. Their Saint-Nicolas performances bring together actors, volunteers, and young enthusiasts, creating a living archive of local stories and communal spirit. This year’s anniversary celebration aims to honor the troupe’s eight decades of theatre and community service while inviting new generations to learn, participate, and carry the tradition forward. The expanded two-day program mirrors the group’s enduring commitment to accessibility, creativity, and social connection within the Bullois community.
Program notes and how to participate
While specifics can vary annually, attendees can expect a blend of family-friendly theatre pieces, musical interludes, and opportunities to meet neighbors from across Gruyère. The Saint-Nicolas celebrations are designed to be inclusive, offering workshops, audience Q&As, and, above all, a shared sense of celebration around the figure of Saint-Nicolas. The two-day format provides more chances to enjoy the troupe’s artistry, as well as spontaneous street performances that spring up around the town center.
Charmey’s desalpe: autumn light and bells
Beyond Bulle, Gruyère is alive with related traditions. In Charmey, the seasonal desalpe—cows returning from the alpine pastures to winter grazing—drew crowds as the animals descended the hillside. The scene, bathed in gentle autumn light and punctuated by the bells of the herd, evokes the cadence of rural life in the region. Our photographer Chloé Lambert captured these moments of shared heritage, offering viewers a cinematic glimpse of life in the Alps that complements the Saint-Nicolas festivities in Bulle with a different facet of Gruyère’s cultural calendar.
What to expect when you visit
For travelers and locals alike, the Saint-Nicolas celebration in Bulle is a chance to experience the warmth of Gruyère’s cultural life. The two-day program typically blends theatre, parades, and opportunities to sample regional specialties, all set against the backdrop of the town’s historic streets. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast, a family looking for a festive outing, or a visitor tracing the region’s rich traditions, this event offers a welcoming gateway to the heart of Gruyère. Plan ahead to enjoy both days and take time to stroll between performances, meeting people from across the canton.
About the region
Located in the canton of Fribourg, Gruyère is renowned for its cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and culinary specialties. The Saint-Nicolas celebrations in Bulle are an expression of this regional vitality, connecting long-standing folk customs with contemporary community theatre. The 80-year milestone of Les Tréteaux de Chalamala underscores how regional art organizations sustain cultural life, foster intergenerational exchange, and contribute to the broader appeal of Gruyère as a destination for authentic Swiss traditions.
