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OLMA Messe St. Gallen: Why You Need to Have Been There

18 July 2026

The OLMA: One of a Kind in Switzerland – and You Should Be There

Every year in October, St. Gallen transforms into a magnet for hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over Switzerland and neighbouring countries. The reason? The OLMA – Switzerland's trade fair for agriculture and food. But anyone who reduces the OLMA to a simple agricultural show has never browsed between the colourful stalls, listened to the sound of alphorns, or eaten a fresh Olma bratwurst. A word of warning: here it is eaten without mustard – that is non-negotiable! In this post, you'll find out why a visit to the OLMA is an absolute must and how to complete the experience with the perfect accommodation in St. Gallen.

What exactly is the OLMA?

The OLMA has been held since 1943 and today ranks among the largest public trade fairs in Switzerland. Around 350,000 visitors pour onto the exhibition grounds in St. Gallen every year over eleven days. The centrepiece is the animal show: cows, horses, pigs, goats and many other animals can be experienced up close – an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. Alongside this, exciting exhibitions on agriculture, food, homeland and innovation await guests.

5 Reasons Why You Have to Visit the OLMA

1. The Famous Olma Bratwurst

It is a legend: the Olma bratwurst from the St. Gallen tradition. Prepared on a charcoal grill, served without a bun – or at least with a piece of bread on the side – and under absolutely no circumstances with mustard. If you've been to the OLMA, you've eaten one. If you haven't eaten one, you weren't really there.

2. Animals You Can Touch

The OLMA is one of the rare occasions where city dwellers can encounter real farm animals – right in the middle of the city. Children love stroking the calves, and adults marvel at the magnificent breeding horses. The animal show is the emotional centrepiece of the fair and a true highlight for families.

3. Regional Products and Culinary Delights

Cheese, wine, bread, meat, jams, liqueurs – at the OLMA you'll find everything that Swiss food production has to offer. Many exhibitors come directly from the farm and present their specialities with pride. A culinary tour through the halls is like a journey through Swiss food culture.

4. Entertainment for the Whole Family

Alongside the exhibition, there is a varied supporting programme every day: concerts, stage performances, fashion shows, specialist seminars and special exhibitions provide entertainment on every level. The OLMA is not a place where you get bored – quite the contrary.

5. The St. Gallen Atmosphere Included

A visit to the OLMA is always a visit to St. Gallen as well. The picturesque old town with its UNESCO World Heritage Abbey Library, the cosy restaurants in the alleyways and the relaxed Eastern Swiss way of life turn a trip to the fair into a complete city break.

Tips for Your Visit to the OLMA

  • Plan ahead: The OLMA takes place in mid-October each year. Hotels and holiday apartments in St. Gallen book up quickly – so reserve early!
  • Buy tickets online: Online tickets are cheaper and save time at the box office. Available directly on the official OLMA website.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The exhibition grounds are large – you will cover many kilometres. Comfort is key.
  • Plan for multiple days: Anyone who really wants to experience the OLMA should plan for at least two days. That also leaves time to explore St. Gallen.
  • Use public transport: The exhibition grounds are close to St. Gallen main station. Getting there by train and bus is easy and stress-free.

Where to Stay During the OLMA?

This is the question many people ask – and the answer is crucial for a successful OLMA experience. Hotels in the city centre are often fully booked and expensive during the fair. A smart alternative is private holiday apartments and flats in St. Gallen and the surrounding area.

With a cosy holiday apartment, you enjoy more space, more privacy and often a far more authentic St. Gallen feeling. You can cook for yourself, have a relaxed breakfast and unwind after a long day at the fair – all without the hustle and bustle of a hotel. A holiday apartment is the ideal solution especially for families, groups or couples who want to stay for several nights.

Book your accommodation in St. Gallen directly with us – no intermediary platforms, no hidden fees. With a direct booking you often benefit from better terms, personal service and the assurance that your apartment is exactly as promised. No algorithm, no call centre – just real hosts who are delighted to welcome you.

Conclusion: The OLMA Is an Experience You Shouldn't Miss

Whether you are coming to the OLMA for the first time or are already a loyal regular – this fair never leaves you indifferent. It is tradition, community, culinary delight and spectacle all in one. And with the right accommodation in St. Gallen, a day trip becomes an unforgettable short break. So: block the date in your calendar, book your accommodation directly – and please, the bratwurst without mustard!