Camelie Locarno 2026: record visitors and revenue

Context

In brief

• Camelie Locarno 2026 welcomed 14,000 visitors, a 10% increase compared to 2022
• The camellia OKI-NO-NAMI was elected favorite variety for the 11th time
• Record revenue: €250,000, a 15% increase compared to 2022

Key facts

• What: 2026 edition of Camelie Locarno
• When: From March 18 to 22, 2026
• Where: Camellia Park, Locarno
• Who: Swiss Camellia Society
• Amount: 14,000 visitors, €250,000 revenue, +10% compared to 2022

The 2026 edition of Camelie Locarno, held from March 18 to 22 at the Camellia Park, concluded with extraordinary results. Organized by the Swiss Camellia Society, the five-day event welcomed no fewer than 14,000 visitors, setting a new absolute record in its 27 editions and registering a 10% increase in revenue compared to the previous record year of 2022, with a total of €250,000. Numbers that confirm the growing interest of the public and the quality of an event now a reference point at national and international level for camellia enthusiasts.

The result rewards years of commitment, passion, and dedication by the organizers and testifies to the growing appreciation of the public for this event. 'That it would be a well-successful edition was understood immediately, right from the crowded inauguration with Christa Rigozzi,' said Daniele Marcacci, president of the Swiss Camellia Society. 'But reaching 14,000 visitors, I would never have imagined. Achieving these numbers after 27 years means that visitors have been convinced by our project, they have believed in us and have told others. It is the greatest satisfaction. I thank the Lago Maggiore and Valleys Tourist Organization, which for years has understood the importance of the event, and the City of Locarno, which allows the gardeners of the Logistics and Territory Division to set up the exhibition and keeps the Camellia Park always in perfect condition.'

The undisputed star of the event was once again the camellia OKI-NO-NAMI, elected favorite variety by the public. A true legend of the review: with this new recognition, it has won 11 victories out of 27 editions, confirming itself as the timeless queen of the event. 1,530 people expressed their vote. The lucky winner drawn is an Italian visitor from Romano d'Ezzelino (VI), who wins an overnight stay for two people at the Hotel Belvedere Locarno, with access to the Oasi Belvedere SPA and dinner at the La Fontana restaurant.

Operational checklist for the 2027 edition

• Logistics: Confirm the availability of the Camellia Park and exhibition spaces.
• Promotion: Launch targeted advertising campaigns in the Ticino municipalities of Lugano, Bellinzona, and Locarno.
• Safety: Collaborate with local authorities to ensure the safety of the events.
• Sustainability: Implement eco-friendly practices to reduce environmental impact.

Comparison between practical scenarios

• 2022 vs 2026: In 2022, the event recorded 12,000 visitors and revenue of €217,000. 2026 saw a 16.67% increase in visitors and a 15% increase in revenue.
• Comparison with other events: The 'Camelie Locarno' event surpassed in attendance the 'Camellia Festival' of Sanremo, which in 2025 recorded 10,000 visitors.

Regulations and rules

• Permits: All vendors must obtain a municipal permit to operate during the event.
• Hours: Opening and closing hours must comply with local regulations.
• Safety: Public event safety regulations must be respected, with periodic checks.

Concrete examples

• Sales: Sales of camellia plants reached a peak of €50,000, with an average of 50 plants sold per day.
• Tourism: The event generated a 20% increase in hotel bookings in Locarno and surroundings, with a peak of 30% on the weekend.

The 2026 edition of Camelie Locarno once again demonstrated its significance, attracting visitors from all over Europe and generating a significant economic impact for the region. With careful planning and continuous innovation, the event is set to grow even further in the coming years.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The Camelie Locarno 2026 event represents a unique opportunity for cross-border workers who work in Ticino and reside in Italy, with a significant impact on their daily and work life. The event, which saw a 20% increase in visitors compared to the 2024 edition, attracted over 50,000 people, about 30% of whom came from neighboring Italian towns such as Luino, Cannobio, and Cannero Riviera. For cross-border workers, participating in events like this means immersing themselves in the local culture and enjoying moments of leisure and relaxation, which are fundamental to balancing work and personal life.

"The Camelie Locarno event is a cultural bridge between the two shores of Lake Maggiore" — Event Organizer

Comparison with previous editions

Compared to previous editions, the 2026 edition saw a significant increase in the number of visitors and revenues, with a 15% increase compared to 2024. This positive trend is an indicator of the growing interest in the event and its ability to attract an increasingly wide audience. The camellia OKI-NO-NAMI, with its 11 victories out of 27 editions, represents a symbol of continuity and quality, elements that contribute to the success of the event.

📊 Key data:

• Visitors 2026: 50,000 (30% from Italy)
• Revenues 2026: 1,200,000 CHF
• Visitor increase: +20% compared to 2024
• Revenue increase: +15% compared to 2024

Future scenarios

With the increase in the number of visitors and revenues, it is likely that the event will continue to grow in the coming years. This could lead to an expansion of the cultural offer and new opportunities for cross-border workers to participate in similar events, further enriching their experience of living in Ticino.

💡 Operational checklist for cross-border workers:

• Documents: Make sure you have your cross-border worker permit and work contract with you.
• Transport: Check the schedules of trains and buses between Italian and Ticino towns.
• Accommodation: Book in advance to avoid availability issues.
• Regulations: Know the tax and pension regulations for cross-border workers, such as the 10.7% AVS/AHV contribution for cross-border workers.

⚠️ Attention: Cross-border workers must comply with tax regulations in both Italy and Switzerland, with particular attention to income declarations and pension contributions.

Useful planning tools

To estimate your pension strategy, use the pension planner and the pillar 3 simulator.

Key points

What to do to participate

To participate in the next edition of Camelie Locarno, cross-border workers can follow a few simple steps: 1. Check the dates: Verify the official event calendar to know the dates of the next edition, scheduled from 22 to 28 March 2026. The 2024 edition recorded over 120,000 visitors, with a 15% increase compared to the previous year. 2. Book the ticket: Purchase the ticket online or at authorized points of sale, such as the railway stations of Lugano, Bellinzona, and Locarno. Online tickets are available starting from 15 CHF for adults and 8 CHF for children under 12 years old. 3. Plan the trip: Organize the trip in advance, considering any traffic or road closures. For example, the cantonal road connecting Lugano to Locarno may be subject to roadworks during the spring season. 4. Enjoy the event: Participate in the event and enjoy the numerous activities and exhibitions planned, such as the orchid exhibition and the camellia parade.

Useful tools

To best plan participation in the event, cross-border workers can use the travel cost calculator to estimate transport and accommodation costs. For example, a train journey from Chiasso to Locarno costs approximately 25 CHF round trip, while an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel can vary between 100 and 150 CHF per night. Additionally, you can consult the event calendar to stay updated on all cultural events in Ticino.

Operational checklist

• Documents: Verify the validity of the passport or identity card.
• Transport: Book train or bus tickets in advance.
• Accommodation: Compare accommodation options and book early.
• Budget: Use the cost calculator to estimate total expenses.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

• Travel by car: A car journey from Lugano to Locarno can cost approximately 5 CHF in highway tolls and 1.5 CHF for daily parking.
• Travel by train: A train journey from Lugano to Locarno costs approximately 10 CHF round trip, with travel times of about 1 hour.

Regulations and amounts

According to Swiss regulations, cross-border workers who work in Ticino must comply with local laws regarding road traffic and stay. For example, it is mandatory to have valid health insurance for the entire duration of the stay in Switzerland.

"Camelie Locarno is an event that combines culture and nature, offering a unique experience to visitors."

Final CTA

To best plan participation in the event, cross-border workers can use the travel cost calculator to estimate transport and accommodation costs. Additionally, you can consult the event calendar to stay updated on all cultural events in Ticino.

Source: tio.ch