Summer Fun with InterSoccer: Football Camps for Kids in Geneva

Summer Fun with InterSoccer: Football Camps for Kids in Geneva

Are you looking for a playful, sporty summer camp outdoors? Intersoccer may be a great choice even for children who are not into football.

Let me explain:

InterSoccer camps and course are about so much more than just football. They help kids develop confidence, teamwork skills, coordination, and resilience – all these are useful on and off the field. It’s a wonderful way for them to make new friends, stay active, and spend time outdoors.

And if your child isn’t sure about football yet, try signing up for a one-day of Intersoccer camp first. I’m sure they’ll love it!

This is a sponsored article but it does not change the fact that I really like Intersoccer’s offer for children in Geneva!

Here are the details for each age group:

Mini Camps (Ages 3-5)

These camps promote movement, joy, and developing self-confidence for the youngest football players. Lots of running, kicking, and learning to play together—no pressure.

– Half-day format (10:00 – 12:30)
– Multiple locations: Geneva, Versoix, Nyon, Etoy, Lausanne, Zug, Zurich, Basel
– Perfect for beginners

Junior Camps (Ages 5-9)

Older kids have more energy, and Intersoccer adapts to their needs. This group is focused more on developing football skills in a playful way, with drills, games, and small matches throughout the day.

– Full-day camp (10:00 – 17:00)
– Early drop-off (8:30) & late pick-up (until 18:00) – perfect for working parents
– Groups based on age & skill level

Academy Camps (Ages 10-13)

This group is perfect for children who already like football and want to improve their skills. Here, they can expect technical drills, small-group coaching, and mini-tournaments!

– Full-day camp (10:00 – 17:00) with early & late drop-off options
– Focus on skill development, tactics, and gameplay
– Fun challenges and matchplay

Girls-Only Camps (Ages 5-13)

Now, that one stole my heart! InterSoccer makes football accessible for everyone, including girls who prefer to train in a girls-only environment. These camps encourage confidence, teamwork, and passion for the game.

The « Girl Power Pack » includes:
– A **2-for-1 offer** (bring a friend)
– A **free football kit**
– Exclusive discounts on future camps

Locations & Dates

InterSoccer’s camps run all summer long in multiple locations across Switzerland, including Geneva, Nyon, Etoy, Lausanne, and more. In Geneva parents can choose between Varembé, Versoix, Vessy, Frontenex, Grand-Sacconex, Champel (depending on the chosen group).

There are flexible booking options: half days, between one and 5 days of the week, flexible drop off and pick up timesParents can choose flexible booking options, from just one day to a full week.

Just head to www.intersoccer.ch to check the full schedule and secure a spot. These camps fill up quite fast, so don’t think too long!

TotUP Holiday Camps Even for Toddlers

TotUP Holiday Camps Even for Toddlers

If you haven’t yet heard about TotUp, it’s about time! It’s company that created several daycares and schools in Geneva, Vaud, and Fribourg. They’ve been offering a great service to families, always being flexible and listening to what people need.

This is how they came to organise summer camps for older children and offer daycare places for smaller kids during summer months (when many regular TotUp kids are away on holidays).

Psst: there’s a surprise at the end of this article.

TotUP offers fully bilingual holiday camps during all school holidays week during the year. The camps are adventurous, creative, run by professionals in a very friendly atmosphere. Summer camps at TotUp welcome children kids aged 2 to 6 years old (or up to 8 years old in Petit-Lancy). Each camp features a theme, from “Gardening & Cooking” to “All About Switzerland”, with plenty of time outdoor, in the nature, with creative activities, and hands-on fun!

It’s a great place for children o spend the summer weeks and meet new friends, while the Flexible drop off and pick up, as well long hours can immensely help working parents.

This is a sponsored article but as always,
I only collaborate with companies I truly believe in and think you’ll love too.

You’ll find all the practical details below:

Camp Options & Pricing

Ages 2-3: TotUP daycare pricing applies. All Locations.
Ages 3-6: Camp pricing applies. All locations.
Ages 3-8: Camp pricing applies. Only in Petit-Lancy.

Full-day camp (7h-19h): 500 CHF per week.
Half-day camp (7h-14h30): 350 CHF per week.
Day pass option: 145 CHF/day (Vaud) or 125 CHF/day (Fribourg)

Special Camps for Summer 2024

Forest Camp, 4+ in Petit-Lancy, Thônex & Epalinges.
August 11-15 (ages 4+)
Full-day (7:00 – 19:00): 650 CHF/week
Kids will spend the week outdoors, learning about nature, exploring the forest, and developing confidence in the wild.

Cinema & Photography Camp (Petit-Lancy only)
July 7-11 (ages 4+)
Full-day (7:00 – 19:00): 650 CHF/week
Led by professional filmmaker Siarhei Zaruba, kids will dive into the world of cinema, photography, and storytelling.

Custom Language Camps in Petit-Lancy
TotUP can organize custom camps in Russian, German, or Spanish if at least five families register for the same week. Price: 500 CHF/week (7:00 – 19:00)

ParentVille Exclusive:
Get 10% off by mentioning « I follow ParentVille » in your email.

Sign up until May 31 via email ([email protected]). Simply send your contact details, weeks of your choice, and the TotUp location of your choice, and the TotUp team will contact you.

More info & registration at www.totup.ch.

5 short spring breaks from Geneva by Let’s Explore

5 short spring breaks from Geneva by Let’s Explore

Geneva is ideally located for a mini-vacation! Short trips in Switzerland itself, trips to France or Italy – are all within few hours drive! I’m happy to tell you that Laura from Let’s Explore agreed to share her picks for 5 short spring breaks from Geneva over at Parentville! Here they are:

Photo credits: Letsexplore.ch

SAFARI AND A PALAIS

Distance from Geneva: 215 km. By car: 2h30
Read the whole review here.

For a long time, I did not even know Safari de Peaugres existed! Safari de Peaugres is a very well-maintained zoo and a safari park. When you arrive at the entrance, you will see that there are two ways to visit the place. You have the part by foot, and you have the part where you drive your car through the zoo and the children will be able to observe the animals in from their own comfortable car seat.

The zoo is quite big and there are beautiful playgrounds!

From the area of the Safari de Peaugres, at less than an hour’s drive, you can also visit the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval which is often listed as one of the most extraordinary places in the world! You can read more about it here on Let’s Explore.

LUCERNE AND THE TRANSPORT MUSEUM

Distance from Geneva: 264 km. By car: 2h43
Read the whole review here.

I wish we had stayed longer in Lucerne, and I think we will definitely go back! Our main reason to go to Lucerne was the Swiss Transport Museum that you may have already heard about on Parentville’s Instagram. This museum is really one of the most beautiful museums I have seen in Switzerland so far, and what I like most is that children can play, touch and discover while learning! Our children liked seeing all the planes, trains and cars, they like sliding down the airplane slide, and they absolutely loved the ‘construction work themed’ play area outside where they could get on the miniature vehicles by themselves! The museum is so big that I don’t think we’ve seen it all…

Lucerne itself is a beautiful city with picturesque medieval bridges, beautiful buildings, the lake side and surrounding mountain tops. Next time we go back, I would definitely like to take a boat ride to Vitznau and then go up on Mount Rigi with the cogwheel train!

VOLCANOES IN AUVERGNE

Distance from Geneva: approx. 340 km. By car: 3h30
Read the whole review here.

This region is so beautiful we have already gone twice. The landscape with so many volcanoes is just amazing and the view from the Puy de Dome is very beautiful! To go to the Puy de Dome you can take a panoramic train up.

One of the activities I loved in this area is our family hike to the crater of the Puy Pariou. It is quite a well-known volcano as it is the one you see on the Volvic water bottle. Our children took some small volcanic rocks home that they found during our hike and they are one of the most special treasures they keep in their room.

We also went to Vulcania, an educational park that also has some cool rides and attractions! So, if your children are interested in volcanoes, the Auvergne is the place to go to!

TICINO REGION

Distance from Geneva, depending on your route, to Lugano: approx. 400 km. By car: 4h30
Read the whole review here.

A bit further away from Geneva, but definitely worth it if you have a couple of days to spend. Often people just continue their journey to Italy, but the Ticino region is very beautiful and the two countries can easily be combined. We went to Lugano, but during our stay we also took a boat ride on the Italian Como lake.

Lugano is great in summer and has a nice southern feel and atmosphere. We took the picturesque train up to Monte Bré for stunning views of city, the lake and the mountains. If you get off one stop earlier at the town of Bré you will be able to find some Grotto restaurants which are typical for the Ticino.

In Lugano itself the public swimming pool, which is located on the shores of the lake, is very nice, and it has a very good kids pool.

When we were there, we also went to Bellinzona one day to visit a castle. If you are there on a weekend, there is a very well-known market in Bellinzona on Saturday’s.

Aosta

Distance from Geneva: 133 km. By car: 1h50
Read the whole review here.

The real feeling of being in Italy, in less than 2 hours by car! Aosta is often called the ‘Rome of the Alps’ and it is one of the best preserved Roman cities. Even though I have been to Italy plenty of times, I was really impressed by the good state the Roman theatre of Aosta is still in. All Roman and historical sites are easily accessible by foot and parents with young children will love the car-free town center to walk around in! The center of course also hosts a fair choice of nice restaurants to complete your Italian experience for the weekend.

The region of Aosta is also known for snow activities in winter and there are of course nice mountain walks to be done in the area in spring or summer.

About Let's Explore

Laura started her Let’s Explore family travel blog because she likes writing, travelling, and inspiring other families to get out there and explore!

She believes that children are very curious travelers and likes the fact that they ask you plenty of interesting questions while travelling that you would not have thought of, and on things you wouldn’t have seen if they had not been there. Travelling as a family will create memories to cherish and allows you to spend special time together in your busy lives.

You can visit her website to find out about other destinations, and if you would like to stay tuned on her travel tips, you can follow her Facebook Page!

GENEVA’S SPRING BUCKET LIST FOR FAMILIES

GENEVA’S SPRING BUCKET LIST FOR FAMILIES

Spring is here, and so are all the new opportunities for a fun family time in Geneva! Here’s Geneva’s spring bucket list for families with children.

Ready? Let’s do it!

LES HALLES DE LA JONCTION

Opening: end of March
This fabulous urban space, by the river, and open in all weather thanks to a huge roof, but still being an outdoors place thanks to not having any walls will be back. What you can do there? Eat in the vast food court, enjoy workshops, festivals, and special events. Kids will enjoy the inflatable Yatouland structures, and more will be announced soon! Stay tuned! More info here.

PARC AVENTURE

Opening: March 22.
This is a place all kids love! It offers treetop adventure obstacle courses with bridges, zip lines, and nets. Mini courses are available for ages 3–6, while older kids and adults can tackle larger courses based on height. The park features also three 160-meter zip lines! Located in a huge parc, and close to a great restaurant and a playground, it’s a perfect location for a family day out in spring. More info here.

SALEVE CABLE CAR

New season starts: April 1.
With the start of April the famous, and newly renovated cable car will be operating every day. a vast program of activities and attarctions will on from April 20. Deatils are still to be announced but it will surely unclude climbing wall courses, workshops by Maison du Saleve, and more! More info here.

CHATEAU DE VULLIERENS

Opening date: April 12.

This is a marvellous, the most magical place in the region. Located in canton Vaud, the castle offers a visit of its gardens. And as boring as it may sound – it is the opposite! It’s very playful, beautiful, and oh! There is even a forest with special attractions for children. Be sure to check their Easter celebrations – they are fantastic! place with a forest dedicated to kids! More details here.

SWISS VAPEUR PARC

Opening date: March 15.

Swiss Vapeur Parc is a miniature railway park on the other end of the lake. It offeris scenic train rides through detailed landscapes, lakes, and Swiss-style villages. Kids (and parents) can enjoy a journey on steam and electric trains – it’s really fun! The park features meticulously crafted bridges, tunnels, and stations, creating an immersive experience. More info here.

EASY SECONDHAND SHOPPING for parents

EASY SECONDHAND SHOPPING for parents

The secondhand market is growing, and more people are embracing the circular economy. But for parents, this is nothing new—passing down clothes, toys, and baby gear has always been a practical way to save money and reduce waste.

Kids grow so fast that buying everything brand new just doesn’t make sense.

The challenge? Finding a simple and reliable way to buy and sell secondhand items. That’s where Petit Marché comes in, with a range of products for children aged 0 to 15.

WHAT IS PETIT MARCHÉ?

Petit Marché is a user-friendly mobile app designed to make buying and selling secondhand kids’ items in Switzerland easier than ever. Available in English, German, and French, the app connects parents looking to buy and sell everything from clothes and shoes to toys, bikes, and baby gear—all in one convenient place.

EASY BUYING AND SELLING

Many parents love the idea of secondhand shopping but find the process frustrating—coordinating with sellers, arranging pickups, and handling payments can be time-consuming. Petit Marché simplifies everything:

  • Buyers can choose to pick up items in person or have them shipped via Swiss Post.
  • Sellers receive a prepaid shipping label once an item is sold, making shipping hassle-free.
  • The checkout process is as seamless as any online store.

SAFE & SECURE TRANSACTIONS

Online marketplaces can come with risks, but Petit Marché ensures secure transactions. Payments are processed within the app using credit cards or TWINT, with funds held until the buyer confirms receipt. If the item is shipped, confirmation happens automatically—eliminating the risk of fraud.

Plus, because Petit Marché is designed for parents in Switzerland, there’s an added level of trust within the community.

POP-UP EVENTS FOR HANDS-ON SHOPPING

One of the challenges of buying secondhand online is not being able to see items in person before purchasing. Petit Marché solves this by hosting regular pop-up events where parents can browse a wide selection of items from the app and buy them on the spot.

With Petit Marché, secondhand shopping for kids is easier, safer, and more convenient than ever. It’s an eco-friendly choice that saves money, reduces waste, and helps parents connect within a trusted community.

Download the app the give it a try.

When child is sick – where to find help in Geneva

When child is sick – where to find help in Geneva

Why is it that kids always seem to get sick at the most inconvenient times? Night falls, the weekend begins, or it’s a holiday—and suddenly, your little one has a fever. And if they do get sick on a regular weekday, it feels like every paediatrician in town is fully booked!

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Luckily, Geneva has plenty of options for urgent pediatric care. Based on recommendations from the amazing Parentville Instagram community, here’s a guide to help you navigate where to go when your paediatrician is unavailable.

Top Pediatric Care Centers and Emergency Services in Geneva

These centres provide professional pediatric care, often for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions. Some of the are walk-in clinics, some require booking an appointment first.

1. Garde Pédiatrique des Eaux-Vives
Pediatric Walk-in and Appointment Service

This place offers out-of-hours pediatric consultations (ages 0-18) on weekday evenings, weekends, and holidays. They handle common childhood illnesses and minor accidents. Appointments open 1 hour before consultation times and can be booked online or by phone.

Address: Avenue de la Gare-des-Eaux-Vives 3, 1207 Geneva
Opening Hours: Weekday evenings (19:00-22:00), weekends & public holidays (09:00-22:00)

Appointment required. Call 0844 022 022 or +41 22 737 47 57. Online booking available.

More information: Pediatric out-of-hours service.

2. Onex Medical Centre
Pediatric Walk-in and Appointment Service

The pediatric emergency center at Cité générations in Onex welcomes children under 16 without an appointment, 7 days a week from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM. It offers direct access to radiology and laboratory services for quick diagnoses, as well as a plaster room for orthopedic care. The medical team provides high-quality care in a safe environment. The center is accessible by tram (line 14) and has paid parking available.

Address: Route de Chancy 98, 1213 Onex
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (07:30-18:00), Saturday (08:00-12:00)

Both walk-in and by appointment. Call 0844 022 022 or +41 22 737 47 57. Online booking available.

More information: Pediatric emergency in Onex.

3. Clinique des Grangettes

The pediatric emergency service at Clinique des Grangettes in Geneva is the largest private pediatric emergency service in Switzerland, offering comprehensive care with specialists in various fields, and an on-site pediatric radiology.

It features a large aquarium to distract children and uses virtual reality to ease pain and anxiety during procedures.

Open to all patients, including those with basic insurance, the clinic focuses on early pain management. For non-urgent cases, contact 0848 333 999 for a specialist.

Address: Chemin des Grangettes 7 , 1244 Chêne-Bougeries

Opening Hours:

  • Emergency consultations: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Urgent consultations: 7 days a week, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, plus weekends all day.

More information: Clinique des Grangettes.

4. Garde pediatriqe Lancy

GPL Garde Pédiatrique Lancy provides daytime medical consultations for children aged 0 to 18 years. They offer comprehensive care, including growth check-ups and treatment for illnesses or accidents, ensuring timely and professional pediatric services.

By appointment. Call 0844 022 022 or +41 22 737 47 57.
Address: Route du Pont-Butin 70, 1st floor, 1213 Petit-Lancy
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 22:00.

More information: GP Lancy.

4. La Tour Hospital (Meyrin)

The pediatric emergency service at Hôpital de La Tour offers round-the-clock care for children, with no appointment needed. This 24/7 service is designed to handle urgent medical situations for children of all ages.

No appointment necessary.
Address: Avenue J.-D. Maillard 3, 1217 Meyrin
Opening Hours: 24/7

More information: Hopital La Tour.

5. Hopital des Enfants – HUG

The pediatric emergency service at the Hôpital des Enfants  is part of the HUG – the most important and the largest hospital in Geneva. It provides 24/7 care for children from birth to 16 years. It treats a range of urgent cases. The team stabilizes conditions with advanced diagnostic tools and collaborates with emergency responders when needed. Parents can access real-time updates and symptom guidance through the InfoKids app, now integrated with InfoMed.

No appointment necessary.
Address: Avenue de la Roseraie 47, 1205 Geneva
Opening Hours: 24/7

More information: Pediatric Emergency at HUG

Attention:

At the Hôpital des Enfants (HUG) emergency service, waiting times are based on the severity of cases. Children with critical conditions are treated first, which may lead to longer waits for those with minor illnesses. While this can be frustrating, it’s a sign that your child’s situation isn’t life-threatening. Being seen immediately would indicate a serious emergency—something no parent ever wants (I learnt the hard way… twice). Understanding this can help make the wait feel a little more manageable, knowing that every child is receiving the care they need based on urgency (those brought by ambulances are absolute priority).

Home visit services (for older kids).

These companies provide home visits to adults and older children. The wait time is sometimes few hours, but at least it means waiting at home. The dispatcher will assess if they can help or if you should seek medical help elsewhere. Doctors who come can perform basic tests (draw blood, urine tests etc.) and have medications on them (eg. they will provide the first dosage of the antibiotic so you don’t need to run to the pharmacie).

  • Genève-Médecins (GE-MED): Offers 24/7 urgent medical house calls. They provide care for children aged 2 years and up, handling common ailments like colds and fevers. Call: 022 754 54 54.
  • SOS Médecin: Available 24/7, 50 doctors provide home visits for general, emergency, trauma, pediatric, and psychiatric care. Dispatchers use geolocation technology to efficiently coordinate assistance. Call: 022 748 49 50.

Book Pediatric Appointments Online

OneDoc is an online platform where you can find and book medical appointments with healthcare professionals across Switzerland, including pediatricians. It’s a convenient solution for parents seeking quick access to care.

Useful apps and websites

The InfoMed app provides parents with real-time updates on wait times at the HUG pediatric emergency room, symptom guidance, and follow-up care instructions. It helps reduce stress during visits by offering relevant information throughout the care process.

Additionally, « Mon enfant est malade » is a user-friendly website designed to help parents understand common childhood illnesses and injuries. It offers advice on symptoms, first aid, and when to seek medical help, supporting parents in making informed decisions at home.

Pharmacies

  • Pharma24: Located at 2 Boulevard de la Cluse, 1205 Geneva, this pharmacy is open 24/7, providing round-the-clock service.

  • Amavita Genève Gare: Situated within Cornavin Train Station at Place de Cornavin 3, 1201 Geneva, it operates Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

  • Sun Store Genève Aéroport: Located at Route de l’Aéroport 25, 1215 Le Grand-Saconnex, this pharmacy is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

You can find other pharamcies open at night and on weeknds at: Pharmacies de Garde.

When your pediatrician is unavailable, Geneva offers a range of reliable medical services to support you. Instead of relying on advice from well-meaning parents on social media, it’s best to turn to these trusted resources.

Whether it’s a late-night pharmacy, a home consultation, or a 24/7 emergency room, knowing your options can reduce the stress of caring for a sick child.

Thanks to the Parentville community, you now have a clear guide on where to seek help. Always confirm details before visiting, and for life-threatening situations, call 144 or go straight to the nearest hospital.

Wishing your little ones a speedy recovery!

Institut Florimont’s Bilingual Kindergarten OPEN DAY

Institut Florimont’s Bilingual Kindergarten OPEN DAY

Institut Florimont’s Bilingual Kindergarten
Open Day January 29, 2025

If you’re looking for a kindergarten that’s as nurturing as it is bilingual, I’ve got a place for you to check out – Institut Florimont. Their kindergarten is fully bilingual (French and English) and welcomes little ones from the age of 3. And guess what?

They’re hosting an Open Day on January 29, 2025!

There will also be a possibility to visit and talk about their Primary school (but the main event is the Kindergarten open day).

This isn’t just any open day – it’s your chance to get a real feel for what makes their kindergarten so special. You’ll get to:

Meet the team: The Admissions crew, the kindergarten Director, and the teachers will all be there, ready to chat and answer your questions. They’ll explain how they create a bilingual learning environment that’s fun and effective.

Explore the space: The classrooms in this modernised old building are beautiful, vibrant and welcoming – perfect for little learners. There’s also a dedicated playground, activity rooms, a siesta space (yes, nap time is a priority!), and even a sports hall.

Learn about their approach: They’ll walk you through their teaching style, the benefits of bilingual education, and how their curriculum evolves as kids grow.

And let me tell you, the bilingual aspect is amazing. Kids pick up French and English naturally, and with native-speaking teachers, they’re not just learning languages – they’re diving into two cultures at once. It’s all about creating curious, confident, and open-minded little humans.

Institut Florimont is also big on arts and sports, which is such a great bonus. From workshops with local cultural partners (Ariana Museum, Black Movie Festival, Antigel Festival, l’Orchestre de Chamber de Geneve just to name a few!) to exciting sports programs, the kiddos get to explore so much beyond just academics.

If all this sounds good, block off your calendar for Wednesday, January 29, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Institut Florimont, Avenue du Petit-Lancy 37, 1213 Petit-Lancy.

Ready to check it out? You can sign up here to reserve your spot. Trust me, it’s worth a visit.

Feel free to share this with friends who might be interested – the more, the merrier! If you’ve got any questions, the Admissions team is super friendly and happy to help.

institut florimont open day

THE BEST CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES IN GENEVA

THE BEST CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES IN GENEVA

The holiday season in Geneva offers many enchanting activities and destinations for families, kids, and everybody else to immerse themselves in festive cheer. Here’s a curated selection of the best Christmas activities in Geneva and around!

Ready? Let’s do it!

1. Sending a Letter to Santa

When and Where: Throughout December, Swiss Post offices and Christmas markets in Lancy and Carouge.
Details: Swiss Post Santa Letters

Swiss Post invites children to send letters to Santa in any of Switzerland’s four official languages: English, French, German, or Italian. Each child receives a personalized reply. Special mailboxes are also set up at the Christmas markets in Lancy and Carouge.

2. Hameau du Père Noël and Grand Parc d’Andilly

When and Where: November 18, 2024 – January 7, 2025, Andilly, France.
Details: Hameau du Père Noël

The Hameau du Père Noël is a magical village across the border in France, where families can explore Santa’s house, the elves’ workshop, and reindeer stables. Nearby, the Grand Parc d’Andilly transforms into a winter wonderland!

3. Santa’s Magic Castle near Annecy

When and Where: November 15, 2024 – January 4, 2025, Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
Details: Château du Père Noël

This enchanting castle near Annecy invites families to visit Santa’s residence, decorated with festive flair. Children can meet Santa, share their wishes, and enjoy seasonal activities.

4. Schilliger Garden Center Christmas Display

When and Where: November 16 – December 31, 2024, Gland and Plan-les-Ouates, Switzerland.
Details: Schilliger Garden Center

Schilliger’s Christmas theme for 2024, « La Fabrique de Jouets du Père Noël, » features enchanting displays, a Christmas train ride in Gland, and visits from Santa Claus.

5. Noël au Quai in Geneva

When and Where: till December 24, 2024, Geneva, Switzerland.
Details: Noël au Quai

Located along Geneva’s quays, this festive market offers artisanal goods, delicious food, and live entertainment. The charming atmosphere and lake views make it a favorite family destination.

6. Neighborhood Christmas Markets

When and Where: December, various neighborhoods in Geneva.

Geneva’s local Christmas markets bring festive cheer to every corner of the city. Check your neighborhood for cozy markets with crafts, seasonal treats, and activities.

7. « Christmas Wish » at Simply Theatre

When and Where: December 10 – December 24, 2024, Versoix, Switzerland.
Details: Simply Theatre

Simply Theatre in Versoix presents Christmas Wish, a heartwarming play for all ages. Enjoy the magic of Christmas through storytelling and theatre.

8. Cirque de Noël

When and Where: till January 7, 2025, Geneva, Switzerland.
Details: Cirque de Noël

The Cirque de Noël dazzles audiences with acrobatics, clowns, and festive performances. It’s an unforgettable holiday event for the entire family.

9. Chaplin’s World Christmas Giant Bubbles

When and Where: December 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland.
Details: Chaplin’s World

Visit Chaplin’s World for giant snow globes, Christmas cookie workshops, and Santa visits. The park’s festive decorations create a magical experience for visitors.

10. Château de Chillon Christmas Festivities

When and Where: December 16–17, 2024, Montreux, Switzerland.
Details: Château de Chillon

This historic castle celebrates Christmas with reenactments, decorations, and a glimpse into medieval holiday traditions.

11. Luna Park d’Hiver at Plainpalais

When and Where: December 7, 2024 – January 5, 2025, Plainpalais, Geneva.
Details: Luna Park Geneva

Geneva’s Luna Park brings thrilling rides, games, and family attractions to Plainpalais. It’s the perfect winter amusement park for a day of festive fun.

Geneva and its surroundings offer countless magical activities for families during the holidays. Enjoy exploring these delightful destinations!

December with kids in Geneva Museums

December with kids in Geneva Museums

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns chilly, finding engaging indoor activities for children becomes essential. Museums offer a treasure trove of experiences that captivate young minds, making them ideal destinations during the colder months. From interactive exhibits to creative workshops, Geneva’s museums provide a warm and educational refuge for families.

Since my daughter was little, we’ve explored various museums together, discovering that these cultural spaces are not only educational but also incredibly fun for children. The collective known as Musées de Genève encompasses 14 institutions, each offering unique activities and workshops tailored for families and children.

Below you will find a selection of family-friendly events happening in December 2024.

To view all family-friendly activities happening in Musees de Geneve in December, check this link.

Musée Ariana
L’art pour tous, tous pour l’art (Art for All, All for Art)

Dates: November 30 and December 1.
Admission: free, no reservations required.

Following the success of its inaugural edition, this festive weekend returns to Musée Ariana, celebrating inclusion and diversity. Activities include dance, theater, tactile tours, singing, and immersive workshops, inviting everyone to explore the museum’s collections through various sensory experiences.

You can see the whole program of this festival here.

Musée de la Réforme (MIR)
La Mère Royaume à l’honneur (La Mère Royaume Highlight)

Thematic Visits:
– Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM
– Saturday, December 14 at 3:30 PM
– Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM

Delve into the story of La Mère Royaume, a key figure in Geneva’s history, through engaging thematic tours suitable for families.

The guided tour is included in the museum entry fee (standard rates apply). Each session is limited to 20 participants, so early registration is highly recommended. You can sign up for your preferred date directly on the museum’s website.

Fondation Baur
Baur en famille – Visite contée (Storytelling Tour)

Date: Sunday, December 15 at 3:00 PM

Discover the origins of silk and the world’s most skilled weaving animal through captivating stories told by a guide. This 45-minute session is designed for children aged 5 to 8, accompanied by an adult.

Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can secure your spot by signing up on the museum’s website.

Maison Tavel
Où se cache le griffon? (Where is the Griffin Hiding?)

Date: Wednesday, December 4 at 3:00 PM

Description: Embark on a journey through two Old Town museums, Maison Tavel and Musée Tatiana Zoubov, uncovering the secrets of legendary creatures like the griffin. This guided tour is suitable for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.

Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can register directly on the museum’s website.

Musée d’Art et d’Histoire

Ce fut en 1602 (It Happened in 1602)
Date: Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM

Relive the events of 1602 when Charles Emmanuel, Duke of Savoy, attempted to invade Geneva. Join this interactive session at Maison Tavel, designed for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.

Première neige (First Snow)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM

Engage in a gentle exploration of the museum’s halls, perfect for curious little ones aged 3 to 5, accompanied by an adult. Each month offers a new adventure tailored for young explorers.

Musée d’Ethnographie de Genève (MEG)

Mémoire chocolatée (Chocolate Memories)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM
Dive into the rich history of chocolate through interactive sessions suitable for families with kids ages 2-7. This event is free and does require reservations.

Des histoires qui prennent soin de l’environnement (Stories That Care for the Environment)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 11:00 AM
Enjoy storytelling sessions focused on our relationship with the environment, fostering ecological awareness among listeners of all ages. This event is free and does require reservations.

Atelier en famille : semelle au vent (Family Workshop: Wind Soles)
Date: Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM
Participate in a creative workshop designed for families to explore cultural themes together.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.

Un objet, un son, une histoire (An Object, a Sound, a Story)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 3:00 PM
Engage with unique objects and their stories through interactive sessions that blend sound and narrative, suitable for all ages.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but spaces are limited, and reservations are required. To register, email [email protected] with your name, phone number, and the number of participants.

These activities not only provide educational value but also create lasting memories for families. Before attending, it’s advisable to visit the respective museum websites to confirm event details, registration requirements, and any associated costs. Embrace the warmth and wonder of Geneva’s museums this December, and let your family’s curiosity lead the way.

SUMMER IN GENEVA FOR KIDS

SUMMER IN GENEVA FOR KIDS

Summer is here to prove Geneva is not boring! The canton, the city, and other municipalities organize a lot of events, including fun things for kids. If we add the lake, paddling pools, and swimming pools on hot days, and all the fun summer trips and hikes to do – summer in Geneva can be awesome on every budget!

Here’s a list of several summer-only events in Geneva for kids or kids-friendly.

LUDOBUS & AMUSEBUS
July, August, September

The toy libraries aka ludotheques take to the streets and parks in spring and summer. They pack games, balls, costumes, bikes, and what not into trucks and visit different locations every week. In Ville de Geneve this is called a Ludobus (there are two), in Ville de Vernier it is called an Amusebus.

They are in different places every week, so it is best if you consult their schedules online: here for the Ludobus and here for the Amusebus.

CHAPITEAUX ENCHANTES
July 3 – September 8

A wonderful festival in Geneva for kidsages 0-4 with free activities every week. The festival takes place in different parks in the canton, every week from Wednesday till Sunday. This year it will take place in Vernier, Carouge, Thonex, Onex, Meyrin, and Lancy. What to expects? Instruments, shows, storytimes, movement, psychomotricite, and more! You can check the detailed schedule on the official website of Chapiteaux Enchantés.

THEATRE DE L’ORANGERIE
Till August 18

Another year, another great program by the Theatre de l’Orangerie, located in Parc La Grange in Eaux-Vives. They have a very nice program for adults, but also a lot for kids – performances and workshops for kids as young as 2 years old. Tickets for the shows are rather cheap, and many workshops are completely free. You will find free workshops for different age groups (even for tweens and teens!), but many require reseervations. For the theatre plays check the prgram and find the show adapted to your kid’s age. You can find all the information at the theatre’s website.

DE PARC EN PARC
July 2 – 27

In summer, the municipal library of Geneva takes over the parks! From July 2 till 13 – Parc Baud-Bovy, and From July 16 till 27 – Parc Beaulieu. What to expect? workshops, quizes, karaoke, robotics, creative activities, haiku atelier, and so much more! Every year, BM (Bibliotehue Municipal) goes over and beyond to provide free fun in summer to people in Geneva, including kids in Geneva! You can consult the detailed program here.

LA CANOPE
Wedensdays, all summer

Entirely dedicated to relaxation and getting back into shape, this ephemeral space near Baby Plage offers activities during the sunny days! Also for people with kids. On Wednesdays: ludotheque and yoga for kids with their parents. You can check the program for the hours of all activities here. Psst: everything is completely free!

SALON D’ETE, Parc des Franchises
all summer

Salon d’ete returns in Parc des Franchises to bring snacks, beverages, and fun ativities in Geneva for kids! At the moment the website of Salon d’ete is not working but as soon as it changes, I will update this article with activities they planned for this summer. For the moment you can check this website to see this Salon in super fun Parc des Franchises.

L’ETE AU JARDIN
all summer, Meyrin

This is a place you absolutely need to visit! Not only is the Jardin Alpin in Meyrin one of the most picturesque park in Geneva canton, but the program they prepared for this year is fantastic! Exhibitions, guided tours, shows, concerts, cinema, workshops, food trucks. Everything is free. Check this website for dates and times of each activity (including food trucks).

TOUR DE PLAGE
July 4 – August 18, Carouge

Tour de Plage at the Fountain of Tours de Carouge is a fantastic event for families this summer! From July 4th to August 18th, 2024, families can enjoy a delightful array of activities every Thursday to Sunday afternoon. The event offers something for everyone with a diverse program of cultural, sports, and other entertaining activities. Parents can relax on deck chairs and under parasols while their children engage in fun and enriching experiences. You can see a very detailed program of planned fun here at this website.

LES HALLES DE LA JONCTION
starting date to be announced

A fan new place on Geneva’s summer map will emerge soon! Halles de la Jonction are located in the old TPG hangars near Point de la Jonctio. There will be sports, workshops, food, drinks, and of course space for kids, and kids-oriented events as well! The opening date has not been announced yet, but it should happen in July. Watch this space to know where it happens.

MANY OTHER EVENTS

Sometimes it looks as if municipalities of the canton were trying to win the « best summer events » contest! Vernier with its « Contre Saison » cultural program, Lancy built a website dedicated website for its « Lancy en ete » program, and Plan-les-Ouates comes back with PLO Plage awesomeness! I am sure every municipality in the canton organizes somethimg!

There is much more to do in Geneva with kids in summer! Including 3 completely new places perfect for family fun!

There are so many things to do, and so many of them are free: from walking in amazing forests or by numerous rivers, playing in the parks, and bathing in many fun places! Be sure, to follow Parentville on Instagram to get more ideas for fun summer in Geneva.