At Whitsun 2026, Obwalden will once again be transformed into a hotspot for the Swiss classic car scene: the "Oldtimer in Obwalden" (O-iO) festival will be celebrated on Saturday 23 and Whitsunday 24 May with hundreds of historic vehicles, political celebrities and a strong focus on young people. On Whit Sunday, O-iO moves to Brienz. The Brünig Steam Railway brought forward the start of its season by a week because of O-iO.
Over 260 vehicles are already registered. An absolute record so long before O-iO. And in 2026 it looks like there will again be a great mix of makes, eras and designs of classic cars.
Unique "link to politics"
O-iO is an integral part of Obwalden's cultural life. Due to its broad social roots and the high presence of government representatives, the event is often referred to as "like the Landsgemeinde of old". In 2019, Ruedi Müller, the organizer, received the first cultural sponsorship award from the municipality of Sarnen (capital of Canton Obwalden).
The tradition of political dialog will continue in 2026:
- Political exchange: after the entire Obwalden cantonal government as well as our Council of States and our National Councillor took part in 2025, as they often do, the O-iO will once again serve as an informal platform for exchange between the population and politicians in the coming year.
- Local roots: The mayor of Sarnen and numerous local councillors are expected to attend.
Proven concept
The "O-iO" has been based on well-established "pillars" for many years:
- Inclusive concept
The exhibitions in Sarnen and Brienz are free of charge for spectators. This is intended to make it easier for families and children in particular to access our cultural heritage. - Passenger tours
The extremely popular passenger rides take place on Saturday from 13:45 to 14:45, also free of charge. - "Schule macht Handwerk" project and soapbox race
In cooperation with local businesses, young people from the Sarner graduating classes build soapboxes to get them interested in an apprenticeship in a playful way. On Saturday, the soapbox race takes place at the O-iO.
After the passenger rides, the O-iO corso will drive through the soapbox track from around 3:30 pm on the occasion of the afternoon exit with 400 to 500 classic cars. There is no more direct way to get young people excited about our passion. This is a goosebump moment for everyone.
Highlights 2026
Petrol meets steam; The upcoming event offers a special cooperation for lovers of historic mobility: Season opening of the Brünig Steam Railway: The steam railroad starts its season on Whit Sunday, May 24, in sync with the O-iO. With trips between Brienz and Meiringen.
Corso to Brienz: The classic cars start at 10 a.m. on Whit Sunday in Sarnen and travel via Brünig, Meiringen to Brienz, celebrating the connection between road and rail.
In Brienz: At the finish, participants can expect a cosy get-together and a program put together by Brienz Tourism.
Registration
Owners of vintage cars and motorcycles can register online or by telephone. Participants with vehicles pay a contribution towards the costs of the event.
Further information and the opportunity to register can be found on the event website. There you can also see who has already registered.
