The 2026 edition of “Easter in the city”, an event that enlivened downtown Lugano from April 3rd to 6th, marking a significant increase in attendance compared to previous years. Thanks to the favorable weather, the event attracted a large crowd of both residents and visitors, helping to kick off the spring season with energy.
Markets, family activities, and entertainment spread across the city center, the lakeside, and Ciani Park have transformed Lugano into a vibrant and engaging gathering place. The impressive turnout confirms the event's increasingly central role in the city's calendar.
Treasure hunts are the star of Easter in Lugano.
Among the most popular events was the traditional treasure hunt, which involved approximately four thousand children. The trail, which ran from Ciani Park to the lakeside, was one of the most anticipated moments, culminating with the distribution of a gift from Lindt & Sprüngli.
Other activities aimed at children also enjoyed strong participation. The Duck Fishing event, held in the fountain in Piazza Manzoni, attracted a steady stream of participants, while the new installation of the Great Sandbox exceeded expectations, prompting extended opening hours.
Alongside the playful offerings, there was also room for reflection with the installation "I Would Like to Know Why...", created in collaboration with the University of Italian Switzerland, which invited the public to express questions and curiosities through writings and drawings.
Events and music for a cross-section of audiences
The festive atmosphere was accompanied by a rich musical and folk program. Performances included the Nostranello Duo, Tacalà, the Lorenza and Francesco Duo, the Bandella di Bedano, and the alphorn players. Completing the program, a concert by the Castagnola Philharmonic contributed to a varied cultural offering, capable of engaging a wide range of audiences.
The Easter Picnic is sold out
Among the most popular new features of the 2026 edition was the Easter Picnic – Brunch Edition! with Sambì, which sold out a week before the event began. The initiative, held at Parco Ciani, offered a convivial format based on a large shared table, encouraging moments of socializing in the open air.
The event's success confirms the growing interest in collective and informal experiences, in line with new trends in urban events.
A promising start to the spring season
Satisfaction was also expressed by the city authorities. Deputy Mayor Roberto Badaracco emphasized that "Easter in the City" is a well-established and highly appreciated event, especially for families, as well as being a major tourist attraction in early spring.
The 2026 edition thus represents an encouraging sign for the calendar of events that will enliven Lugano in the coming months, between April and September, involving urban spaces and neighborhoods.
Collaborations and support for the initiative
The event, organized by the Events and Congress Division of the City of Lugano, was supported by several partners, including the Lugano Region, AIL, the University of Italian Switzerland, and Lindt & Sprüngli.
This contribution has helped consolidate a comprehensive program capable of appealing to an increasingly wider audience, confirming "Easter in Lugano" as a key event for the start of the tourist season.
