One week after the cancellation of the descent of the alpine pastures by the association Annecy tradition and the municipality, traders from GNI, the National Group of Independents of the hotel and catering industry, are stepping up to the plate by Haute-Savoie.

Via a petition “No to the cancellation of the descent of the alpine pastures“ which for the moment gathers 4,600 signatures, the traders demand the maintenance of this popular and folk festival organized every first Saturday of October (this year on October 9).

The biggest turnover of the year

“Even more than the lake festival, it is for us the most important day of the year in terms of cash flow“testify Karine Zerbola, the owner of the Buvette du café, in the old town of Annecy. “The health crisis, lockdowns and administrative closures scared us and taught us that _every day of turnover counts_. Once again we cannot do without the descent of the pastures “ she says.

Perpetuate ancestral traditions

To the Prefect of Haute-Savoie and to the Annecy Tradition association organizing the event, the GNI proposes to maintain the event but respecting the sails to respect the health rules. _ “No parade in the streets of herds and mountaineers but” _a presentation of ancient trades with all decorated shops and staff in traditional costumes because this festival is essential to the maintenance and transmission of our mountain culture “ she ends.