Fête de la Transhumance de Munster

A Millennia-Old Pastoral Tradition in the Heart of the Vosges

Since the 12th century, transhumance has dictated the rhythm of life in the Munster valley. Every spring, herds of Vosges cows—recognizable by their black and white coats—leave the valley farms to reach the high mountain pastures, vast summit meadows where they will spend the summer. It is up there, in the farm-inns or marcaireries, that the famous Munster cheese, a jewel of Alsatian gastronomy, is made. This age-old practice, inscribed in the living heritage of the Vosges, is celebrated with two major annual events.

The Spring Ascent: A Grand Departure

In May, the ascent to the high pastures (Wandelfescht) kicks off the summer grazing season. The cows, adorned with flowers, ribbons, and cowbells, leave the stables for a long march through forests and meadows to the high farm-inns like the Treh or the Kahlenwasen. Hikers can accompany the herd for several kilometers, sharing this emotional moment with the breeders. Upon arrival, a traditional 'repas marcaire'—valley pie, farm-made Munster, blueberries—brings together guests and shepherds in a warm atmosphere.

The Autumn Descent: The Great Popular Festival

On the first Saturday of October, the Great Transhumance Festival in Muhlbach-sur-Munster celebrates the return of the herds to the valley after four months of summer grazing. Nearly 200 cows—Vosges, Brown Swiss, and other breeds—parade through the village streets to the sound of Alpine horns, 'toupin' horns, and cowbells, creating a unique auditory and visual spectacle. The day begins with an ecumenical celebration at 9:30 AM, continues with the arrival of the first herds around 11 AM, and culminates with the Malkerowa, the traditional mountain evening starting at 6 PM.

An Artisanal Market and Local Flavors

Around the parade, some 70 stands of artisans and producers liven up the day: cheesemakers, beekeepers, potters, and wood sculptors offer their creations and local products. The Munster soup, served in front of the Schlitte museum from 11:30 AM, is a must-try. Cheese-making demonstrations, folk dances, and activities for children complete this festive program that attracts thousands of visitors each year to this village in the upper valley.

A Living Heritage to Preserve

Today, about fifty breeders still practice transhumance in the Vosges massif, mainly in the Haut-Rhin region. The Transhumance Festival of Muhlbach-sur-Munster, organized by the Festival Committee with the support of numerous local associations, helps keep this tradition alive and raises public awareness of the importance of mountain pastoralism for landscape maintenance, biodiversity, and artisanal cheese production.