Fasnacht | Helvetia
February 14, 2026 @ 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Helvetia welcomes you to celebrate our 59th Annual Fasnacht.
An indoor and outdoor event, we invite you to join us from 12p to 10p for a celebration of winter, the changing seasons, and a pre-Lenten tradition that dates back to 1520 in Switzerland. Sometimes called the Mardi Gras of Appalachia, Fasnacht is German for “fasting night,” which celebrates a grand feast before a fast. Helvetia’s Fasnacht combines the customs of the Swiss Fasnacht and Sechseläuten, a traditional spring holiday celebrated in the Swiss city of Zürich where they burn an effigy of winter to welcome spring.
We will enjoy fatty foods, listen to Swiss & Appalachian tunes, wear homemade masks to scare away Old Man Winter, parade with lampions, and burn an effigy of the Old Man in hopes of a healthy and happy spring.
Please join us for a celebration that is dear to our community. We only ask that you participate with care and tenderness toward our small village. This event is coordinated entirely by a small group of volunteers so please temper expectations and offer a helping hand to any in need.
All proceeds benefit the community’s restoration, development, and archives.
GENERAL ADMISSION (ADULT) – $35
Ticket includes entry to the masquerade where twenty-five masks are awarded a handmade Swiss flag, the jam session inside the Star Band Hall, free sign up for guided tours (limited numbers), and admission to the Alpine-Appalachian square dance inside the Helvetia Community Hall.
Ticket includes entry to the masquerade where twenty-five masks are awarded a handmade Swiss flag, the jam session inside the Star Band Hall, free sign up for guided tours (limited numbers), and admission to the Alpine-Appalachian square dance inside the Helvetia Community Hall.
GENERAL ADMISSION (YOUTH 12-17) – $15
Youth attendance includes the same offerings as General Admission.
Youth attendance includes the same offerings as General Admission.
CHILDREN 11 & UNDER – FREE ADMISSION
Children are encouraged to attend for free. Old Man Winter will have a toy for children (as supplies last), and we would love for you to participate in the masquerade by donning your very own homemade mask. Twenty-five handmade Swiss flags are awarded to the best masked children.
Children are encouraged to attend for free. Old Man Winter will have a toy for children (as supplies last), and we would love for you to participate in the masquerade by donning your very own homemade mask. Twenty-five handmade Swiss flags are awarded to the best masked children.
Bring CASH because many local businesses do not accept credit cards and the event will have items for sell outside of admission.
Also, visit www.helvetiawv.com for directions and more information about the community.
FOOD & LODGING:
Beekeeper Inn – 304-924-6435
Hütte Restaurant – 304-924-6435
Swiss Roots Store & Inn – 304-924-9100
More to come!
Beekeeper Inn – 304-924-6435
Hütte Restaurant – 304-924-6435
Swiss Roots Store & Inn – 304-924-9100
More to come!
Visit https://www.eventcreate.com/e/fasnacht-2026 for tickets and more details.