One of the most significant cultural events of the year in Geneva is the Fête de l’Escalade to commemorate the repulsion of Savoyard troops from the Republic of Geneva. In 1602, the Duke of Savoy launched a surprise attack on Geneva and legend has it that a cook was the one who raised the alarm. But before he warned the others, he poured a cauldron of piping hot soup on the attackers.
Flag of Geneva 
Horsemen 
Citizens 
Pikemen
This is why every first weekend of September, Genevan families buy a chocolate cauldron, or marmite as they call it, filled with marzipan. They come in all sizes from about the size of an apple up to the size of a watermelon, there’s something for all family sizes. The youngest and oldest member of the family traditionally hold hands and smash the cauldron on the day of l’Escalade and the whole family shares the treat.
I happened to be the youngest one in the office that year so I joined hands with the oldest colleague and broke the chocolate cauldron in our office. When we broke it we had to say: “Ainsi peris les ennemis de la République!” Or, here, the enemies of the republic perish.
Torches 
Bonfire 
Bonfire
In the evening, the Escalade Run is a fantastic even where the entire city lines the streets to watch the traditional procession. Volunteers dressed as pikemen, medieval citizens, horsemen, and marching bands march through the old town before ending up at St. Peter Cathedral.
About 50 people armed with torches light up a bonfire at the old town square in front of the church to the tune of a marching band with traditional sings such as Tochter Zion. Each element of the procession marches around the fire at least once. It’s a spectacle to behold and not to be missed even if it means standing in the rain for four hours.
