the venues
Discover the iconic cultural sites of La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Anciens abbatoirs
Built in 1906, the Anciens Abbatoirs (former slaughterhouse) site is a remarkable industrial complex listed as a historical monument. As the event's epicentre, it will be transformed into a vast, vibrant cultural centre hosting exhibitions, concerts, creations and events throughout the year in a unique, minimalist setting.
ABC
The ABC Cultural Centre is a major cultural institution that extends its influence across French-speaking Switzerland and beyond, both through the quality of its programming and its unwavering support for independent artists of all backgrounds. It is a place for discovery, exploration and dialogue. Its community-oriented, curious, and rebellious nature makes it a platform for culture, both local and international, in all its forms: cinema, theatre, music, dance, performance, visual arts, etc.
Les Éplatures Airport
On the outskirts of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Les Éplatures Airport will open its runway for a unique event as part of lcdf27. Normally home to light aviation and pilot training, it will be transformed into a festival dedicated to music and dance.
Beau-Site
Beau-Site, the central venue for the Théâtre populaire romand, is a Neuchâtel creative hub dedicated to the performing arts. It houses workshops, a rehearsal room and a recording studio. Its Charles Joris Hall can accommodate 200 spectators. Since 1984, it has hosted many lively and unique artistic experiences.
Bikini Test
Born out of La Chaux-de-Fonds’ independent scene, Bikini Test will celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2027. Always true to its underground spirit, the venue offers a varied programme dedicated to contemporary music.
Club 44
Club 44 is a unique venue that cultivates curiosity and dialogue. Around forty conferences per year bring together diverse perspectives. A freely accessible media library, exhibitions and podcasts enrich the experience.
Conservatoire de musique
At the Conservatoire de musique, the Salle Faller (Faller Hall) is a concert venue that embodies the living memory of the city. Housed in a late-19th century building, it has hosted concerts, recitals and musical events for generations.
FabLab
The FabLab (Fabrication Laboratory) in La Chaux-de-Fonds is a community workshop open to everyone: a place for learning, sharing, experimentation and collective creation.
CFF Railway Station
At the gateway to La Chaux-de-Fonds, the CFF railway station connects the city to the Jura Arc and the rest of Switzerland. A point of arrival, departure and connection, this vital hub marks the entrance to swiss Capital of culture 2027.
La Grande Fontaine
In the centre of La Chaux-de-Fonds, La Grande Fontaine is a key landmark widely known for its distinctive turtles. Built in 1888 to celebrate the arrival of running water from the Areuse springs, it reflects a pivotal moment in the city’s history. A crossroads and meeting place, it gives structure to the city centre.
Maison Blanche
Built in 1912, the Maison Blanche is the first work created by Le Corbusier (then Charles-Edouard Jeanneret) as an independent architect. The Grand Salon contains the piano designed by Le Corbusier for his mother.
International Watchmaking Museum (MIH)
Unique in its architectural and museographic design, the MIH presents the world’s most significant collection entirely devoted to timekeeping. The exhibition reveals the mysteries of time and traces the technical, artistic, social, economic and cultural history of Swiss and international watchmaking. An exciting journey through time!
Musée paysan et artisanal
This early 17th-century Neuchâtel farmhouse immerses visitors in the world of a traditional peasant interior. The period kitchen, furnished rooms, peasant-watchmaker's workshop and temporary exhibitions bring the rural and artisanal world back to life.
Muzoo
MUZOO is a unique site featuring a museum, a vivarium and a zoo. The museum houses an exhibition on the biodiversity crisis, as well as a temporary exhibition.
Les Mélèzes Ice Rink
Built in 1959 and covered in 1963, the Mélèzes Ice Rink is a premier venue for sports and leisure in La Chaux-de-Fonds, hosting HC La Chaux-de-Fonds matches and various associations.
QG – Quartier Général
Quartier Général is the art centre of La Chaux-de-Fonds. Founded in 2015, it is located at the Anciens Abbatoirs (the city's former slaughterhouses). Within this historic setting, it showcases contemporary artistic creation.
Salle de musique
Adorned with walnut woodwork featuring joinery inspired by string instrument design, the Salle de musique offers exceptional acoustics. Internationally renowned, it hosts concerts and recordings. With 1187 seats, it provides a harmonious and intimate setting for both audiences and artists.
Temple Allemand (German Church)
Deconsecrated nearly 50 years ago, the German Church has become an iconic cultural venue in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Theatre, concerts and events benefit from its remarkable acoustics.
Temple des Éplatures
The former Temple des Éplatures, renovated by ASPAM following the 2023 storm. A place for gatherings, culture and seminars, open to the public and offering limited accommodation.
Théâtre de l’Heure Bleue
An Italian-style theatre, the Heure Bleue is a 19th-century architectural gem listed as a national historic monument. With 500 seats, it presents a rich and varied annual programme.
Théâtre des Abeilles
The Théâtre des Abeilles is a vibrant cultural venue housed in a converted former temple. Since 2016, it has staged plays, musicals and concerts in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.