BEA 2026 gets off to a successful start with 120,000 visitors
The 73rd edition of the BEA in Bern drew around 120,000 visitors on its first weekend. The official opening at the Festhalle drew prominent guests from the worlds of politics, culture, and business—including Swiss President Guy Parmelin. A variety of highlights await visitors at the Bernexpo grounds through May 3.
The 73rd edition of BEA 2026 got off to a successful start. Around 120,000 people visited Bernexpo's trade fair highlight on the first weekend, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the entire area. The areas of enjoyment and tradition, the Green Centre, the Luna Park and the nightlife program were particularly well attended.
Grand opening with the Federal President
The official opening took place for the second time in the Festhalle and attracted high-profile guests. In addition to Federal President Guy Parmelin, Mayor Marieke Kruit, Grand Council President Edith Siegenthaler and Government President Christoph Neuhaus also attended. The event was hosted by Cloé Salzgeber. In keeping with the special exhibition on robotics, a robot also made its grand entrance. Musical highlights were provided by the legendary family band Oesch's die Dritten and Zurich singer-songwriter Keza.
Diverse program until 3 May
The Bernexpo site was already full late into the evening on Friday, and the weekend continued this success. «The first weekend of BEA 2026 was a complete success and was characterized by many encounters and exciting impressions,» says Reto Gertsch, Lead Exhibition & Market. «The many smiling faces and the positive atmosphere gave the trade fair the special aura that has characterized it for decades right from the start. We are now looking forward to the coming days all the more.»
The BEA runs until Sunday, May 3, and offers numerous attractions: The modern dialogue and aperitif culture in the Cube in the Festhalle including a concert by Bernese musician Greis on Saturday, 2 May, the exclusive special show «Robot Worlds» in Hall 2.1, the Horse with various performances in Halls 13 to 15, the special show «Safe Home for Cats» in the small animal and pet area of Halls 12 to 13, the Miss BEA competition on 1 May and hands-on digitalization in Citylab Bern.
Discounted travel by public transport
In cooperation with SBB Railaway, visitors to BEA 2026 can benefit from a 30% discount on the regular admission price when traveling to and from the event by public transport. The offer is available at ticket counters, via the SBB Contact Center on 0848 44 66 88 and online at sbb.ch/bea available.
