Every autumn, shepherds lead their herds home from the summer grazing grounds in the Alps. The two-day journey ends with a celebration in the town of Riffenmatt at the foot of the Bernese Alps.
Pictures and text: Christoph Balsiger, swissinfo
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Waiting for the shepherds.
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Each shepherd takes charge of part of the herd.
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The sheep are firmly tethered to keep them on the straight and narrow.
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Are any missing?
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All aboard for the final leg of the journey home.
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Children are given a day off school to welcome the sheep, but there are other entertainments.
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No lamb on the menu today - Bratwurst (sausage) is the traditional fare.
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Yodellers take a break to liven up the festivities.
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The festival pulls thousands of locals and visitors every year.
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