Every fall, our family looks forward to the Lozärner Määs, Lucerne’s beloved traditional Autumn Fair. Running for about two weeks in October during the school break, it fills Bahnhofplatz and Europaplatz beside the train station and Lake Lucerne. This family-friendly event is a colorful mix of amusement rides, food stalls, and market shops. Plan to spend around two hours exploring everything the fair has to offer.
Amusement Rides for All Ages
The amusement rides at the Lozärner Määs range from adrenaline-pumping thrills to gentle fun for little ones. Each ride requires individual tickets costing between 2 and 8 CHF, so we set a limit in advance—each child could choose three favorites. We wandered past spinning rides, car rids, and classic carnival games before finally picking our top choices. Our family never misses a ride on the Ferris wheel, which offers fantastic views of the city and Lake Lucerne. The bumper cars and carousel were instant hits with the kids too. Remember to bring some cash, as not every ride accepts cards.
Tasty Food and Cozy Lunch Stops
Food is a big part of the fair experience. The food stalls were a clear favorite with our kids—especially the cotton candy and crispy churros. When lunchtime rolled around, we stopped by a charming Swiss chalet–style booth for a cozy meal with seating in the back. The warm Raclette—melted cheese over boiled potatoes—hit the spot and gave us a welcome break from the bustling fairgrounds. You’ll find plenty of Swiss comfort food and international bites perfect for families. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the city if you’d like a quieter escape from the fair. For family-friendly dinning in the city, click here for our recommendations.
Arcade Games and Market Stalls
Beyond the rides and food, the fairgrounds are filled with classic arcade games and carnival booths like ball toss and knock-down cans. My son especially loved the duck game, where he proudly won a toy snake. Across the fair, over 100 market stalls offer everything from local cheeses and wooden toys to handmade jewelry and festive decorations. It’s a great spot to start holiday gift shopping while soaking up the autumn atmosphere.
Getting to Lozärner Määs
Reaching the fair is simple and convenient. The site is just a five-minute walk from Lucerne’s Main Train Station, making public transport the easiest option. If you’re driving, several underground parking areas are nearby. “Parkhaus Bahnhof” is right at the station but can be quite busy. We prefer parking a little farther away at the quieter “Parkhaus Schweizerhof,” which makes for a more relaxed arrival.
A Perfect Family Day in Lucerne
The Lozärner Määs truly captures the spirit of fall in Lucerne. Our family loves strolling through the fair, picking favorite rides, sampling treats, and discovering unique local products. With its festive atmosphere, tasty food, and endless entertainment, the Lozärner Määs is one of the top family-friendly activities in Lucerne in autumn—a perfect way to celebrate the season together.