Music, art and culture for the whole family

On 6 and 7 September 2025, families took centre stage at Lucerne Festival Ark Nova. Under the title Family Days, the inflatable Ark Nova concert hall on the Lidowiese opened its revolving doors for a programme specially designed for young and old alike. For two days, music was experienced in all its facets: from classical chamber music and rousing choral sounds to rhythmic, cross-genre formats.

The musical diversity was also reflected in the ensembles performing. Members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra presented chamber music by Beethoven, while young soloists from the Lucerne Festival Academy took the audience on a musical journey with their programme From East to West. The Surprise Street Choir brought lively choral sounds to the stage for everyone to sing along to, while formations such as Superar Suisse and harpist Julie Campiche provided fresh impulses between classical, jazz and world music. The result was a programme that connected generations and delighted children and adults alike.

What made it special was that admission to Family Days was free for families. This was made possible by UBS and Zurich Insurance, whose commitment ensured that a wide audience could experience the magic of Ark Nova. The offer included not only the concerts themselves, but also the boat trip to the Lido and admission to the Swiss Museum of Transport and the special exhibition on Ark Nova at the Hans Erni Museum. This made the Family Days an unforgettable experience for the whole family.