Things to do in Zurich

Street Parade Zurich: the techno parade around the lake

The Street Parade is a free techno music event in Zurich, usually held on the second Saturday in August. Around 30 "Love Mobiles" – decorated trucks with sound systems and DJs – drive at walking pace around the lake basin, with more stages along the route.

Next date
Saturday, 14 August 2027, 13:00–24:00 (announced)
Route
2.0 km, Utoquai to Hafendamm Enge
Admission
Free
Official information
Street Parade visitor information
Crowd in front of a stage at the Street Parade by Lake Zurich in 2023
Crowd in front of a stage at the Street Parade 2023 (cropped). Photo: “30. Street Parade in Zürich c.jpg” by Skyscraper2010, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, cropped.

What it is

The organisers describe the Street Parade as a non-profit event and a demonstration for love, peace, freedom and tolerance, politically and religiously neutral. It is organised by the non-profit association Verein Street Parade Zürich, all DJs perform without a fee, and around 2,500 helpers work at the event.

The route is 2.0 km long: from Utoquai (Seefeld) via Bellevue, the Quaibrücke and Bürkliplatz to Hafendamm Enge. The stages party on until midnight, and after-parties take place in clubs across the city.

A short history

  • The first Street Parade took place on 5 September 1992. It was founded by the Zurich maths student Marek Krynski, inspired by the Berlin Love Parade, and drew about 1,000 participants.
  • In 2001 the anniversary edition drew around 1 million ravers.
  • The 2020 and 2021 editions were cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • For the edition on 8 August 2026 the organisers reported about 900,000 people, over 200 artists, 26 Love Mobiles and nine stages.

Safety tips from the organisers

  • Wear sturdy, closed shoes – most medical incidents could be avoided with suitable footwear.
  • Protect your hearing with earplugs and breaks. The organisers say small children do not belong at the parade.
  • Do not bring glass bottles; drink enough water and look for shade on hot days.
  • Leave valuables at home and carry little cash; cards and the main payment apps are accepted at the official stands.

Getting there

  • Use public transport: SBB runs special trains to and from Zurich, and public transport operates 24 hours a day on Street Parade weekend.
  • There is no parking in the city centre, so expect long traffic jams by car.
  • The route runs along the Lake Zurich promenades, from Utoquai via Bellevue and the Quaibrücke to Hafendamm Enge.