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- Easter in Nyon has Museums, Egg Hunts and a Week of Family Activities
This Easter, Nyon is offering a mix of creative workshops, playful discoveries and a town-wide egg hunt, giving families plenty of ways to get out and explore during the school holidays. Museums Turn into Playgrounds for the Holidays Across Nyon, the Musée romain, Musée du Léman and Château de Nyon are opening their doors to younger visitors with a series of hands-on workshops. Around a dozen activities are planned, designed to help children discover exhibitions in a more interactive way. At the lake museum , they can go behind the scenes of the aquariums, learn about ecosystems like plankton and even take part in creative workshops such as shadow play or Japanese ink art. At the Roman Museum , it’s a step back in time; from creating mosaics and pottery to exploring the amphitheatre and even crafting a gladiator’s shield. Over at the Château , the focus shifts to imagination where they can decode graffiti in the old prison walls, design fantastical animals inspired by artworks, or experiment with light and shadow in the attic spaces. Part of a Bigger Cantonal Programme These activities are part of PâKOMUZé, a wider initiative bringing together more than 40 museums and heritage sites across the canton. Running from 3 to 19 April 2026 , it’s designed to make museums more accessible and engaging for families during the Easter holidays. Some workshops require advance booking, so it’s worth checking ahead if there’s something specific your child wants to try. Click here for more details. An Easter Egg Hunt Across the Town At the same time, Nyon is turning the town itself into a playground. From 31 March to 14 April 2026 , families can take part in an Easter egg hunt organised by the Ville de Nyon . The concept is simple: Pick up a clue sheet (download HERE ) Visit participating shops around town Spot the hidden wooden egg in each one Receive a small chocolate reward Each stop also includes a QR code, giving participants the chance to enter a prize draw to win “Only Nyon” vouchers. It’s an easy way to explore the town centre while supporting local businesses AND keeping younger participants entertained along the way. A bit of culture. A bit of movement. And, of course, a fair amount of Swiss chocolate.
- The Heart of Paléo is Powered by Volunteers
When people think of Paléo, they usually picture the big moments. The headline acts. The crowds. The lights and music. The long queues for food that somehow still feel worth it. What’s easier to miss is everything happening behind the scenes. Because Paléo does not run on music alone. It runs on people. Paléo @Anne Colliard Each year, the festival is powered by nearly 5,500 volunteers , with 47 bars, 136 food stands, more than 250 concerts and shows , and around 250,000 festivalgoers across six days and nights. And for many of those volunteers, it is not just a shift. It is an annual ritual. More Than a Beer Stand I spoke to one volunteer, Tom Buck from the FC Gingins Bar du Midi tent last year, who has been helping at Paléo for around five or six years. For him, it started with something simple, it was already part of his local life. He grew up knowing his football club had a stand at the festival. Then one year, he and some teammates decided to sign up together. They’ve been doing it ever since. That sense of local continuity is common among volunteers. At Paléo, many of the bars are run by associations, and the festival pays a percentage of the profits back to those local groups. That means the hours spent serving drinks help support sports clubs, youth activities and other community organisations long after the festival ends. What Volunteering at a Bar Actually Looks Like From the outside, it can look like volunteers are simply pouring beers and having a good time. In reality, there is a lot more going on. There are the people at the taps, of course. But there are also runners keeping fridges stocked, volunteers collecting and sorting glasses, teams handling logistics, people guiding visitors, helping backstage, managing information points, supporting waste sorting, and making sure the whole site keeps moving. Paléo says roles and time commitments vary by sector, with some volunteer positions lasting from 8 days to 7 weeks , while festival-week shifts are typically at least 5 to 6 hours a day . At the FC Gingins stand alone, the team served 1,900 litres of beer on the Tuesday night last year . That number says a lot about the rhythm of the week. There is preparation before the rush after a major set on the Grand Scène. Refilling fridges. Stacking cups. Watching the clock. Then suddenly, the crowd arrives all at once. It is part choreography, part chaos. Themes, Costumes and Controlled Madness One of the nicest details that came out of our chat was how much effort goes into the mood behind the bar. Each night has a theme, set by the team leaders. Costumes come out. Music plays when concerts aren’t on. Different bars compete with each other. Volunteers get into character and festivalgoers notice and enjoy this part too. It is still work, especially later in the night, but there is something very Paléo about making even the hard work feel playful. A Different Kind of Festival Experience Volunteering at Paléo seems to create its own time zone. You work late. Sometimes very late. There’s a staff and volunteer after-party once the concerts are over. You head home around six or seven in the morning while others are getting up for work. Breakfast shifts to mid-afternoon. For one week, normal life is suspended. And in that strange little bubble, people reconnect. Tom described it as a chance to press pause on the year and step away from everyday life and work. To catch up with people from the area. Some are close friends. Others are people you only see at Paléo. You spend an hour together behind the bar and somehow, that’s enough to pick things back up. That fits with how Paléo describes its volunteer culture too. Built on friendship, trust and a strong sense of belonging. Volunteer Loyalty That may be one reason so many volunteers come back. Paléo’s own press material says volunteer loyalty is a big part of the festival’s identity, and that a large share return year after year. The average volunteer age is 33.34 , and 34% come from the Nyon district, with another 23% from France, 13% from Geneva, 11% from Lausanne and 18% from elsewhere in Switzerland. So yes, it is local. But it reaches well beyond Nyon. Being a volunteer does come with a few practical perks too; access to the festival, meals, drinks, and a handful of extras along the way. But that’s not really why people do it. It’s the experience of being part of something at scale. Seeing what happens behind the scenes. Finding your place within a system that only works because thousands of people show up and do their part. There are dozens of roles across the site. From bar service and logistics to welcoming the public or artists, managing access, supporting sustainability efforts, or even helping build and dismantle the festival itself. Some roles run just during the week of Paléo, others start weeks before and continue after. Which means there’s usually something that fits everyone - if you're there for the full experience or just a part of it. Not Always Easy to Recruit Of course, none of this happens automatically. Behind the scenes, teams are constantly recruiting and bringing in new volunteers. Paléo may be one of the most sought-after tickets of the summer, but volunteering still requires time, energy and a real commitment. The festival says many sectors still recruit mainly through word of mouth, though some also publish openings on the volunteer page from around the end of April. Volunteers need to be at least 18, speak and understand French, be fully available for the period required by their sector, and have valid Swiss health insurance. That partly explains why so many teams begin by looking close to home first. Sports teams. Friends. Friends of friends. People who already understand that this is not just about getting a festival wristband. It is about showing up for a group. The Community Spirit is Part of the Sustainability Story Paléo’s volunteer culture also sits inside a bigger story about how the festival sees itself. The festival has been certified as a Greener Festival and received the Community Action Award in 2025 for the social impact of its sustainability policy and its strong ties to local associations and community life. It also states that it has used 100% green energy since 2006 , that 64% of festival waste is recycled thanks to 341 volunteers , and that all bars are run by local associations who receive a share of the profits. It also prepares around 50,000 meals each year for its roughly 5,500 volunteers , with an increased focus on seasonal and regional products. So the volunteer story is not a side note. It is part of the structure of the festival itself. You might not always notice them, but they’re part of every step of the experience. From arrival to the journey home, volunteers are what keep Paléo moving. Managing the crowds, helping people navigate transport and parking, answering questions, and keeping everything flowing in between. Here’s to the people behind it all!
- Visions du Réel Is Back in Nyon This April
From 17 to 26 April 2026 , Nyon once again hosts Switzerland’s leading documentary film festival and one of the most recognised internationally. @Visions du Réel Not just for Film People If you’ve never been, it’s easy to assume this is “for cinephiles.” It is. But it’s also much more than that. Visions du Réel is built around real stories with films that explore lives, ideas and perspectives from around the world. The kind you don’t usually come across on mainstream platforms. And the atmosphere is surprisingly open. You can dip in for a single screening or stay for a discussion and then soak up the vibes around town. A festival that Puts Nyon on the Map Created in 1969, the festival has grown into Switzerland’s leading documentary event and a key date on the international film calendar. Each year, it brings filmmakers and audiences from across the world to Nyon, with many films shown as world or international premieres. Nyon becomes a hub of ideas, creativity and conversation, all centred around stories that reflect the world as it is, or as it’s changing. What to Expect this Year The 2026 edition marks the 57th festival , with a programme that typically includes: More than 150 films across different formats and themes Screenings throughout the day and evening Q&As and discussions with filmmakers Industry events running alongside the public programme Activities for younger audiences There are also the smaller moments that regulars know well, conversations outside venues and spontaneous recommendations. Easy to Access and Planning Your Visit Everything takes place right in town, with main venues just a short walk from the train station. You don’t need to commit to the full programme. Even one film is enough to get a feel for it. And if you’ve lived in Nyon for a while and never quite got around to going, this is your reminder. The programme is already live, so now’s a good time to pick a few screenings and plan ahead. You can explore the programme and book tickets via the official site: https://www.visionsdureel.ch/ Ticket Pre-sale at Place du Marché 2 in Nyon 31 March to 13 April Monday and Tuesday 14:00-18:00 Main ticket offices at Place du Réel 16 April – 14h00-21h00 17 - 25 April – 9h00-21h00 26 April – 9h00-17h00 This the official trailer from Visions du Réel to give you a feeling of what the festival is all about.
- Step Up for Cancer Support This May
There are some initiatives that are easy to support, and this is one of them. This May, we’re encouraging residents and employees of the Nyon and La Côte region to take part in Steps for Cancer Support, a fun fitness challenge that turns everyday movement into free of charge support in English for people affected by cancer. Here’s what it’s all about. A Nation-wide Challenge with Real Impact From May 7-26, people across Switzerland will come together for the 7th edition of the Steps for Cancer Support Challenge, tracking their daily steps and raising funds for Cancer Support Switzerland. Last year nearly 2,000 participants joined the challenge, raising over CHF 350,000. These vital funds allow Cancer Support Switzerland to continue providing psychological, emotional and wellbeing support in English, free of charge, across Switzerland and neighbouring regions. The challenge is simple: walk more, move more and do it together with friends, colleagues or family members. Every Step Matters to Someone Behind every step is someone whose life has been touched by cancer. When Sam moved to the Lake Geneva region, she expected the usual challenges of living abroad; a new language, new systems, new routines. What she did not expect was a cancer diagnosis. “I remember thinking I don’t even know who to talk to.” Through a friend, Sam discovered Cancer Support Switzerland, a non-profit organisation founded over 25 years ago, when a small group of English-speaking cancer patients began meeting in a Geneva bookshop to support one another. Today, services such as professional counselling and coaching, support groups and wellbeing activities are offered free of charge and in English, both in person in Vaud, Geneva and Zurich, and online across Switzerland. For Sam, finding that support changed everything. “Joining a walking group helped me feel connected again,” she says. “It reminded me I wasn’t alone.” Join the Nyon Steps for Cancer Support Community. We’re encouraging people in Nyon and La Côte to sign up, form a team with friends and family, and take part in this year’s challenge. Locally, a number of Nyon-based companies including Edwards Lifesciences, Beckman Coulter and SCB have already signed up. The team at Living in Nyon will be stepping too! It’s a fun, inclusive way to get moving while building a sense of community, team spirit, and a little friendly competition. How to Take Part More information and registration: � https://www.cancersupport.ch � https://www.cancersupport.ch/steps-for-cancer-support If you or someone close to you has been affected by cancer, you can also contact Cancer Support Switzerland at 022 723 22 31 or email support@cancersupport.ch to speak with a trained professional counsellor and learn more about the support services available. If you’ve been looking for a way to get moving a bit more as the days get longer, this is an easy one to get behind. Join with friends, family, or colleagues and be part of something that supports others. As always, if you have an event, initiative or story you’d like us to share, you can submit it via our Community Events page or send us an email livinginnyon@gmail.com
- Discovering Go in Nyon. A Game That Quietly Brings Generations Together
Last weekend in Gland, a different kind of gathering was taking place. Dozens of people, children, teenagers, parents and retirees, gathered around small wooden boards, placing black and white stones in near silence. Some spoke French, others English, and some barely shared a common language at all. Yet everyone understood the same thing. The game. GO The event was organised by the Association Go Nyon , affectionately known as the “GOats”. What stood out was not just the game itself, but the atmosphere around it. At the entrance, participants chose a simple bracelet indicating their level, from complete beginner to experienced player, and then sat down to play with others at a similar stage. Within minutes, strangers were playing, learning, and sharing a laugh together. A Game You Might Not Know If you have never heard of Go, you are not alone. It is one of the oldest continuously played board games in the world, originating in China more than 2,500 years ago, with 46 million people knowing how to play it globally, yet it remains relatively unknown in the West. The concept is simple. Two players take turns placing black and white stones on a grid, aiming to control territory and capture their opponent’s stones. The rules are easy to learn, but the strategy can take a lifetime to master. @By Goban1 - Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15223468 Where Everyone Starts Equal That simplicity makes it surprisingly accessible. At the tournament, children played adults, teachers faced their students, and beginners received help from more experienced players from the club. Volunteers, including young members moved between tables explaining the rules and helped newcomers get started. What made the event particularly striking was how quickly traditional hierarchical roles disappeared as adults were being taught by children. Around these boards, everyone was simply a player. A Club Built Around Curiosity The Association Go Nyon was created to make the game accessible to the local community, welcoming all ages and levels in a relaxed and social environment. They meet twice a week during the school year at The Clubhouse, Rue Nicole,3 Nyon Tuesday evenings: 18:00 to 19:15 Wednesday afternoons: 14:00 to 15:30 Sessions are mostly in French, but many members also speak English. Newcomers are encouraged to come along and try a session or two before deciding whether to join. Different Kind of Discovery For families in the Nyon region, Go offers something a little different. It is calm, strategic, and surprisingly social. A game where children and adults can sit down together, learn at the same pace, and occasionally surprise each other. No noise. No screens. Just a board, a few stones, and time. If you would like to learn more or join a session: Go Association of Nyon Learn about the game itself here Who knows. Your next favourite hobby might start with a single black stone on a wooden board.
- Nyon 2026 Elections. Results, Second Round and What's Next
On Sunday 8 March, Nyon residents voted to shape the city’s political landscape for the 2026–2031 legislature. Now that the results have been confirmed, including a late adjustment that shifted the balance in the council, we have a clearer picture of how the next five years will begin. But with no candidate elected to the Municipalité in the first round, the final outcome is still to come. Here’s what’s been decided, what’s still open, and what happens next. Photo: Michel Perret / City of Nyon / January 18, 2021 Two Votes, Two Roles In Nyon, voters were electing two separate bodies on the same day: The Municipalité (executive committee) - the 7 people who run the city day to day The Conseil communal - a 100-member council that debates and approves decisions They work together, but they’re elected in two different ways. What’s Been Decided and What Hasn’t Voter turnout was just under 40%, which is fairly typical for local elections, but also a reminder that a relatively small portion of the population ultimately shapes the outcome. The Conseil communal (council) which debates, questions, and votes on decisions, is now fully elected. The Municipalité , which takes action and executes those decisions, is still undecided. The Municipalité Is Still Open Unlike the council, the Municipalité is elected using a majority vote system . Candidates don’t just need to come first, they need to secure more than 50% of the votes to be elected in the first round. In this election, several candidates came close: Alexandre Démétriadès (PS) 48.41% Pierre Wahlen (Les Vert·e·s) 46.69% Olivier Riesen (PLR) 44.92% But no one crossed that 50% threshold. What happens when no one reaches 50%? A second round is triggered. This is called a ballotage général , where: All seats remain open Candidates run again The final 7 members of the Municipalité are decided A second round of voting will take place on 29 March to determine who fills these 7 seats. The results of the municipal election were announced at 4:30 p.m. by Ms. Muriel Cardinaux, President of the Municipal Council. Photo: Glenn Michel / City of Nyon / March 8, 2026 The Conseil Communal Final Results This is where we do have a clear outcome. Based on the final count, the council is now slightly more centre-right leaning . A Small Error… That Changed the Result One important detail emerged after election day. Around 200 ballots were initially miscounted, which led to a correction in the final results. The impact: The PLR gained additional seats The PS, Greens, and PIN each lost one seat The PLR became the largest party in the council A small administrative error, but one that shifted the political balance. What Happens Next All eyes now turn to the second round. Sunday 29 March → Final vote for the Municipalité This is the moment that will determine: Who leads the city How decisions are implemented The overall political direction of Nyon Because while the council sets the tone, the municipality drives the action. And with no clear winner in the first round, your vote still has a big role to play. These decisions will shape the everyday reality of living here from schools and infrastructure to culture, housing, and community life. For those who want to go deeper into the numbers and detailed results, you can find everything on the Ville de Nyon website.
- Morges Tulip Festival. It’s That Time Again
It happens every year. Someone mentions the tulips in Morges. You think, we really should go this year . And then suddenly it’s mid-April and you’re checking to see if you’ve missed it! Well we're giving you plenty of notice to mark it in your calendars so you're right on time to catch the beautiful, colourful display. From 27 March to 10 May 2026 , ore than 140,000 tulips and nearly 350 varieties are planted in the Parc de l'Indépendance and around the old town. Not in a “formal garden” way. More like long stretches of colour that you walk through at your own pace. The Association Morges Fleur du Léman organise the Tulip Festival and the Dahlia Festival every year. Free of charge and accessible to all, the festival is a beautiful part of the Spring season in the region What Else Is Happening at the Festival If you want more than just a walk, there’s a programme running alongside it. Pottery market (early April) Artisan market (early May) Small performances, workshops and family activities Food stands and weekend brunch options in the park For the full programme, visit the Morges Tourism Website Practical Details Location: Parc de l’Indépendance, Morges Dates: 27 March – 10 May 2026 Entry: Free Time needed: 1–2 hours Getting there: Direct train from Nyon, short walk to the lake
- Paléo 2026 Line-Up Revealed. And Yes, It’s Time to Use Your Bon Flex
The wait is over. The Paléo Festival has officially unveiled its line-up for 2026 and if you tuned into the live stream of the press conference yesterday, you’ll know… this one feels big. From global pop icons to cult legends and a strong Swiss presence, the 49th edition is shaping up to take over the Plaine de l’Asse from July 21 to 26, 2026 in true Paléo style. And while the names are grabbing headlines, there’s something else just as important right now: tickets . Because that’s really what this is about now. Not just who’s playing, but when you’re going . At the top, it’s a strong mix: Katy Perry Lorde The Cure Gorillaz Twenty One Pilots GIMS Alongside them, a programme that moves easily between pop, rock, hip-hop and electro. Orelsan, Vanessa Paradis, Morcheeba, Theodora, Amelie Lens, Bob Sinclar… and plenty more in between. Nothing surprising in the structure. But that’s also the point. Paléo knows exactly what it’s doing here. Big names to anchor the week. Enough variety to pull in different crowds. And just enough depth for you to discover something new once you’re there. The 2026 Programme You can download the full programme HERE If You Have Bon Flex Tickets… This Is Your Moment If you bought a Bon Flex voucher over Christmas , don’t wait. The exchange window is always short and the most popular evenings go quickly so lock in your evening. The exchange period is from March 18 until midnight Tuesday 24 March 2026 . Redeem your voucher for a ticket to the evening of your choice and secure your spot. And if it was a gift for a loved one, don't forget to remind them! General Ticket Sales. Be Ready. For everyone else, tickets go on sale: Wednesday, March 25 at 12:00 (queue opens around 11:45) And if previous years are anything to go by, it will sell out fast. Very fast. And every year, it’s the same story. Tabs open. Screens refreshing. And a little bit of luck! The Numbers Behind It All 103 artists and groups 200+ concerts and shows Around 250,000 festivalgoers 6 days, 1 Plaine de l’Asse For more insights into the Paléo Festival, explore any of our previous articles . Simply search "Paléo" on our site and read all about festival's vibrant history and offerings.
- Unleash Your Inner Performer. The World of Improv with new group UnscriptedNyon
Are you ready to step into the spotlight and explore the world of improvisation right here in Nyon? UnscriptedNyon , founded by seasoned improv maestros John Mikton , Derek Hill , and Shahin Tavakoli , is your ticket to a world of creativity, laughter, and community.In this article we bring you the essence of our interview with John Mikton, one of the founding trio, who shared his insights into the exciting journey of improv and how UnscriptedNyon came to life. Unscripted Nyon Unscripted Nyon John and Shahin crossed paths during their respective improv journeys at Association Vaudois des Ligues d'Improvisation (AVLI) , where they were part of Improv Nyon. After a year, they decided to embark on a new adventure, fueled by a shared passion for improv. People expressed a longing for English improv, and John and Shahin along with Derek were determined to fill that gap. There are a significant number of French improv teams in Canton Vaud and Geneva but the English-speaking community needed its own stage and so, UnscriptedNyon was created. D iscovering the Art of Improv Improvisation is a unique art form that thrives on openness, acceptance, listening, and trust. John describes four fundamental components of improv: Openness and Acceptance: There is no room for judgment. It's all about saying "Yes, and..." and embracing every idea without hesitation. Listening to Hear: Good listening is key. It's about truly understanding what your fellow performers are saying and building on their words. Collaboration: It's not a one-person show. Improv thrives on group dynamics, where everyone feels safe and included, and trust is paramount. Trust: Building trust takes time. Improv is about throwing yourself into the unknown, trusting your fellow performers, and creating something amazing together. Improv is more than just a performance; it's a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and community building. C reating a Safe Space Improv provides a safe haven for those seeking a creative outlet and a chance to explore new ways of communicating. It's a space where you can pause, reflect, and step out of your comfort zone in a supportive environment. The routines and sketches in improv are not just fun; they can be emotionally rewarding. Through movement and words, participants build a community and develop tools to navigate the complexities of life. John explained that in Luxembourg where he spent 5 years as part of an improv troupe, a few of the members were there with a prescription from their doctor - using improv as a form of therapy for burnout or anxiety. UnscriptedNyon's Approach Unlike French Canadian improv where you compete in a hockey rink with a referee and strict rules and routines, UnscriptedNyon focuses on theatre and improv games. The goal is not competition but rather a creative exploration in a carefree, safe environment. UnscriptedNyon offers a more relaxed, fun, and expressive experience. And yes, they're open to the idea of future shows at British pubs in the area! Building Community Through Improv UnscriptedNyon is free and open to all adults. It's about exploring a new medium and being spontaneous. Through improv, you'll not only have a blast but also gain valuable insights into effective communication, body language, and collaboration. Improv groups often become tight-knit communities where personal lives remain separate, but trust and camaraderie flourish. It's a space where you can leave your daily burdens at the door and embrace the present moment. If you're curious about improv, seeking a creative outlet, or simply looking to have some fun, UnscriptedNyon invites you to join their growing community. Say Yes, and sign up here today.
- Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Pierre-Alain Dupuis, one of Paléo Festival's Originators
In the heart of Nyon lies the legendary music festival that has captivated generations for its 46 editions. We had the chance to sit down with one of Paléo Festival’s originators, an individual who wears many hats within our community. President of the Nyon Tennis Club, a dedicated (though now recently retired) Sports TV journalist for 35 years as well as football and tennis commentator. He also set his sights on becoming part of Nyon’s Municipality (executive body), running for a seat earlier in 2023 in the by-elections. Despite not achieving that particular goal, his unwavering spirit and passion for fostering unity and joy through music as well as sport have been integral to his enduring success. Vice President from 1977 until 1982, one of the originals from Paléo who is still involved to this day, giving guided tours to newcomers and continuing its legacy. He talks about how he got involved in Paléo, his cherished moments from over the years, what he does now and his thoughts for the festival's future. Pierre-Alain Dupuis You were there from the early days of the Paléo Festival, how did you become involved? To be really honest, the first ever concert organised by Daniel Rossellat (President of Paléo Festival) was in ’73. I was a close friend to Daniel but I was playing soccer in Nyon so I was not involved. But at the age of 20, after they had organised the first one in the Salle Communal, I met Daniel who said, I think we have to go out into the open air - and so we went to Colovray down next to the swimming pool. He said I need people with a lot of energy, a solid committee – are you OK to be with me? Wow i thought, it’s a great idea. I’m ready to be your right arm because Jacques (Monnier) who makes the programme was in France. So, I was the Vice President. I got involved and put all my energy in this first open air festival. There were 5 of us and we expected 18 hundred people and we had nearly 18 thousand! Back then you had to organise it last minute, by the telephone boxes, asking if you have a car to rent me and so on - just incredible. We were very lucky, I think we were good but we also had three days of sunshine. If you had one day of rain people would just look at the weather and they would not come. It’s not the case today. Today the tickets are sold out in 41 minutes! So just a huge success and we were very proud of that and we decided to keep going. After 5 years of being Vice President, I was in charge of the artists speaking English and Press Relations. A massive job but volunteering and I was still at university studying and playing football. It was great, it was a passion pushed by the energy and the friendship. It’s the 46th edition this year. What keeps you coming back after all these years? Because it’s part of me. I have only missed two because of the Olympics. I like meeting people and there are so many that I only meet once a year here! I am also of a certain help to the organisation. But to be honest, I don’t stay until 3 o'clock in the morning, I choose my nights. We have a tradition on the last Sunday with Daniel, the old guard. We make a fondue at 3am and then after the fondue its 4:30 in the morning ,the sun is rising and you look at the grounds – it’s incredible. You don’t have the feeling that 3 hours ago there was a festival. It’s clean - they have already started the breakdown. I’m sure there are many but what has been one of your highlights? (Long pause) I have a story that I like to tell. In ‘78 we had the group Clannad coming from Ireland. At this time I was in charge of welcoming artists from England and Ireland. I had to go and welcome them and the singer was called Moya Brennan. She was one of the best harpists in the United Kingdom. I went to the airport she was there with a big harp and I was in my father’s car. Of course the harp couldn’t get in the car and so she was desperate. Stay here, I told her, we are going to try to find something. I will bring your musicians to Nyon and come back with a new vehicle and we will make it! After that, I went to their soundcheck and because I was giving her more attention, she said oh he’s nice and we had a love affair! I spent the whole summer touring England at her concerts. It was a big moment and her voice, the way she played the harp, it’s incredible. So this is one of those special memories. Why do you think different generations of people can enjoy Paléo together, safely and freely? Unusual for a music festival. It’s a miracle. At the beginning, the audience was made by teenagers and older people. My father was against Paléo, all the politics guys in Nyon were against Paléo and it was a hard fight to be accepted as well. Accepted as a music festival. It had the bad image, young people with long hair, smoking, hippy. But then things changed…. Ahhh Paléo is fantastic! It brings a lot of animation to Nyon, it’s good for the economy of the area and then people started to go to Paléo in Colovray and they were amazed by the atmosphere. It was peaceful, it was nice, safe and then people were having babies and they came with their babies on their shoulders. We created the nursery, my kids went and then wanted to come back year after year. The story is that now our kids are over 30, they have kids and come with them. You know the 3rd generation. People of my age are just 5 percent of the crowd. But the average age is 30 and 50 percent of the crowd is less than 40 years old. What was kind of genius of Daniel Rossellat was he said we have to involve Nyon – the community, the clubs, the volunteers. We gave the clubs (handball, football, ski, tennis...) beverage stands, so they came with their volunteers and they get money back for their clubs. And this was very good, what they make depends on what they sell. They get at least 10, 15k and it’s important for them. During the covid years it was definitely a lack in their revenue. @Paléo Poster from 1978 From 17,500 festival goers to 250,000 this year! Where do you see Paléo in ten years time? I don’t want to say it will stay like it is but it also cannot increase. You don’t have the area, the acres. The danger is, you have so many music festivals now, it’s a question of the music industry. Will Paléo be able to have good artists on the main stage? It's so expensive now. If you don’t give, let’s say 1 million to a big star they will just go to the next festival and I think you need to have good artists. The ambiance, the spirit, this area and everything is great but people look to see who is coming. So I don’t see any change for the next 5 years but if it’s like football, you need the big important people, the Messis and Mbappes. The big artists. Will Paléo be able to pay as much as the others? At a certain period of time we had artists who wanted to play at Paléo – but now it doesn’t matter as much to them because they will play at the next festival instead. And now you do guided tours. It’s a service for the sponsors because they like to have our guests come backstage where the public cannot go, with explanations, stories and figures. But we still can’t go on stage and take selfies with the big stars! More snippets from our conversation. I am a fan of Manchester United. Locally... when I was a kid I was a fan of FC Lausanne-Sport but then I grew up and was a big fan of FC Servette but in my job of commentator, I couldn’t be bias. I like international football and the Women’s World Cup, which has just begun. I still have an eye on this and tennis of course. I lived through Roger Federer's career – I gave his first interview when he was 16 and I commented in major tournaments . But now I am retired, he is retired and a new life begins for me. Thank you to Pierre-Alain Dupuis who leaves us with a deeper appreciation for Paléo's rich history and its enduring spirit.
- Swiss Tax Reform. Why Homeowners Should Pay Attention Now
With Switzerland set to abolish the imputed rental value, what does this mean for homeowners in practical terms? To help us make sense of it all, we turned to our go-to translator of tax language, Alex Clarke at Albatross Group, to break down what we know so far and what to consider next. Real Estate Update: Abolition of the Imputed Rental Value What it means for homeowners in Switzerland On September 28, 2025, Swiss voters approved the abolition of the imputed rental value with 57.7% voting in favour. The reform is expected to come into force no earlier than January 1, 2028. It's important to note that at this stage, only the federal direct tax component has been approved. The cantons, including Vaud, still need to to determine their own position regarding the exact tax treatment at the cantonal level. Does this apply to you? This concerns you if you: Own your primary residence in Switzerland Are planning to buy a home We are not covering rental properties here. A separate update will follow once more information is available. Key words to understand The imputed rental value is a notional income that homeowners must declare for the home they live in, as if they were renting it out. Even though no rent is received, this amount is added to taxable income. The idea behind it was to create equal tax treatment between homeowners and tenants. Who benefits most? Homeowners of relatively new properties, since they incur very low maintenance costs. New buyers benefit from the planned deduction of debt interest for first-time purchasers Homeowners who have largely repaid their mortgage, particularly retirees. Who may be disadvantaged? Owners of older properties in need of renovation works Those planning substantial renovation works after 2028 What changes? Mortgage interest deduction Debt interest will only be deductible on a limited basis, through a special deduction for first-time buyers of their primary residence. Interest will be capped at CHF 10,000 per year for a couple in the first year Reduced on a linear basis each year, over a ten-year period Renovation and maintenance costs These will no longer be tax-deductible for owner-occupied properties, except for costs relating to: Energy-saving Demolition All the changes mentioned above apply at the federal level. The cantons have not yet clarified the exact deductions that will be permitted at the cantonal level. What to consider now? For planned renovations, homeowners should quickly assess whether it makes sense to bring certain works forward, in order to still benefit from tax deductions during this transition period. Final thoughts If you own both rental property and your own home, running a financial simulation is the best way to understand the potential impact of the reform. Keep in mind that it is still too early to assess the full consequences, as the cantons have not yet fully defined the exact rules. For now, if you are planning renovations, it may be wise to carry them out while deductions are still available. At Albatross , we can help you identify which renovation expenses remain tax-deductible and in planning strategically during this transition period. Alex Clarke @ Albatross
- Festival du Film Vert Returns to Nyon from 12–15 March 2026
Four days of films, discussion and practical inspiration. The Festival du Film Vert returns to Nyon from 12 to 15 March 2026, taking over the Salle Communale for a programme centred on ecology, biodiversity and solutions. This year’s edition focuses not just on raising awareness, but on highlighting people and projects already responding to environmental challenges. Opening Night - Climate and the World of Work The festival opens on Thursday 12 March (free entry, reservation required) with a screening of Éclaireurs , directed by Arthur Gosset. The film follows professionals whose careers are directly affected by climate disruption and who are choosing to rethink and transform their industries. The screening will be followed by a roundtable discussion on how different professions are adapting to the climate crisis, organised in partnership with the Ville de Nyon. Saturday: Art, Agriculture and Action Saturday 14 March brings two standout screenings. Una canción para mi tierra (A Song for My Earth) , recently awarded at the Green Film Award, tells the story of a music teacher and his students who use song and performance to speak out against pesticide use. The film will be preceded by a live concert from Colour of Rice and followed by a short discussion on the role of art in defending the living world. Devenir Paysan Later, Devenir Paysan traces the journey of Léonard, an HEC graduate and son of doctors, who decides to become a farmer. The film explores the realities of access to land, economic pressure and the search for meaning in agricultural work. A discussion with directors Alexia Tissières and Mathilde Vandaele will follow, focusing on agricultural transition and the renewal of farming professions. Workshops and Nature-Inspired Creativity Across Saturday and Sunday, the festival extends beyond screenings. Origami artist and naturalist Jonathan Rebouillat will present an exhibition and lead workshops for both children and adults. Inspired by wildlife and the Amazon, his work combines observation, craft and environmental awareness. Nature storytelling and activities led by Léman Nature will also form part of the weekend programme. Throughout the festival, filmmakers and specialists will be present for discussions, offering space for dialogue around ecological transition and biodiversity. Practical Information 📍 Salle Communale de Nyon, Rue des Marchandises 4 📅 Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 March 2026 🎬 Screenings, debates, workshops and family-friendly events Full programme and reservations: www.festivaldufilmvert.ch Instagram: @ffvnyon The Festival du Film Vert has built a reputation in Nyon for combining information with accessibility. For those looking to better understand environmental challenges and the people responding to them, it offers four days of films and conversations rooted in action rather than alarm.












