School’s out on 27 June, and Geneva parents are already on the hunt for the perfect thank-you gifts—whether for classroom teachers, crèche carers, piano tutors, or any other superheroes who shape our children’s week.

What should you give, and where can you find it? Let’s dive in and make the search quick and fun.

A Kind Gesture, Never a Requirement

Remember, though, that teacher gifts are a lovely gesture, not a requirement. A batch of homemade biscuits, a hand-drawn card, or a small token from the local market can feel every bit as meaningful as something store-bought and lavish. Choose (or make) what suits your budget and, more importantly, what reflects the gratitude you feel—whether that’s a simple thank-you note slipped into a child’s backpack or a hamper you’ve curated with extra care. Thoughtfulness, not price, is what speaks loudest.

My Top Pick — J’Aime Concept

Tucked away on Rue des Boudines 3 in Meyrin, J’aime concept is equal parts florist and curated gift boutique. Think fresh or dried bouquets, Swiss-made candles, artisanal teas, small-batch cosmetics, delicate jewellery and other hand-picked treasures—all in one light-filled space. We always end up getting something small and nice for us us too, and highly enjoy discovering funny, pretty, and unique items they have!

Community Favourites

Below is the crowd-sourced shortlist based on recommendations from Parenntville followers on Instagram

• La Sherinette — a boutique in Eaux-Vives, discover it on Instagram.

• Chloe et Rose — local jewelery. Read more here.

• Fleurs de Frida — a lovely boutique in Quartier des Bains. Check it out.

• Louve d’Opale — gifts for all occasion – see here.

• Capricieuse — another boutique in Eaux-Vives with a lot to offer. More info here.

Gift Cards & Experience Vouchers

If you’re unsure of a teacher’s tastes and ready to opt for a more pricey gift —opt for a voucher instead. A spa afternoon, a workshopp, a ceramics experience, or simply a gift card to Manor, Globus, or any other store/cafe/restauranta. Tailor the experience to their hobbies and let them choose the perfect moment to enjoy it. After all, the real gift is a well-earned moment of relaxation once the classroom lights go out for summer.

Something magical will be happening just a few tram stops from central Geneva from 15 to 25 May, 2025! Plan-les-Ouates invites families to dive into the world of storytelling at the 27th edition of La Cour des Contes — a vibrant celebration of spoken tales.

For nearly 30 years, this festival has brought together storytellers from across the world to enchant audiences of all ages with myths, legends, fables, and original tales. Whether you’re new to Geneva or a longtime resident, this is a rare chance to experience the universal power of storytelling — in French, but through gestures, music, and emotion that transcend language.

What to Expect

Poetic, hilarious, mysterious performances for all ages! With artists coming from places as far as Japan, Portugal, the Middle East. Every show is a small journey! There are daytime shows tailored especially for little ones (some starting from age 1!) as well as deeper, more intense evening performances for teens and adults.

Highlights for families include:

• “Poulette et Petit Coq” (ages 2+) — a fun musical story about friendship and quarrels.
• “Rêves de Papier” (ages 4+) — a beautiful tale inspired by Japanese origami.
• “Comme un poisson dans l’eau” (ages 2+) — a poetic undersea adventure.
• “Le Roman de Renart” and “La légende du roi Arthur” (ages 6+) — timeless classics with a twist!

For the first time, the festival will also offer a storytelling performance entirely in Portuguese! Taking place on Wednesday, May 21 at 2:00 PM at La Julienne, the show is suitable for children aged 5 and up.

Some are free

And the best part? Several shows and workshops are free and don’t require reservations, including “Pas Jeter Les Mots” (a touching show plus creative workshop about words and memories) and crafty activities like making puppets or painting superheroes.

Practical Info

Most shows take place at La julienne, a cultural hub in Plan-les-Ouates, but events also happen at nearby locations like the Fondation Baur or the Temple de Plan-les-Ouates. Tickets are CHF 10 for kids and adults alike for the children’s and family shows, with discounts and festival passes available. Free shuttle services are available for certain shows, and venues are strollerand wheelchair-accessible.

You can book tickets online at www.lacourdescontes.ch, or directly at the venue before the performance (subject to availability).

Why You’ll Love It

Storytelling is more than just performance — it’s about connection, culture, and imagination. For children growing up between languages and cultures, it’s a wonderful way to experience French in a playful and engaging way. And for adults, it’s a refreshing break from screen time and the everyday routine.

Plan a family outing, pick a few shows, and maybe stay for a snack or workshop. La Cour des Contes is a warm, welcoming festival where everyone — local or expat, young or old — is invited to dream.

If you’re looking for summer camps in Geneva in 2025, you’re in the right place. We have seven weeks of school holidays in summer, and the choice of summer camps is enormous. This is why Parentville creates a selection of summer camps in Geneva every year to make the decision-making process a bit easier.

Below, you’ll find camps for all ages: for 2-year-olds, for school-age kids, and teenagers. You’ll find sports, creativity, languages, and more!

Disclaimer: This is a paid promotion. But rest assured, I only accept to work with companies I trust.
Paid promotions help keep Parentville alive.

KIDS UP – CIRCUS WORKSHOP

During all school holidays, Kids Up offers circus workshops for children aged 5–14. It’s a fun and active way to discover or improve circus skills in a safe environment, guided by experienced instructors. Groups are limited to 8 kids for personalized attention. Each session includes a warm-up and 4 workshops covering acrobatics, trampoline, tightrope, juggling, and aerial disciplines (like trapeze and silk).
In the 5-day option, kids prepare a show to perform for parents on Friday — a touching highlight! Perfect for working parents: your kids are well cared for while you’re at the office.

PRACTICAL INFO
MIN AGE: 5
LOCATION: Meyrin
PRICE: FROM CHF300
MORE INFO: kidsup.ch

RED WHALE SWIM

Join Red Whale’s indoor pool in Bellevue (canton Geneva), built exclusively for children’s swimming lessons and heated to a cozy 33°C. During the spring holidays (April 21–25 and April 28–May 2), they offer a week of daily swim classes for all levels — from babies as young as 5 months to older kids. Lessons are held in small groups, with bilingual teachers (English and French) who are in the water, guiding each child with care and attention. It’s a great way to gain water confidence before summer! Register now directly on their website.

PRACTICAL INFO:
MIN AGE: 0+
LOCATION: Bellevue
PRICE: CHF250
LINK: redwhale.ch

TOT UP

TotUP offers bilingual summer camps for children aged 2 to 6 years (up to 8 years in Petit-Lancy). Each week features engaging themes like “Gardening & Cooking” and “All About Switzerland,” incorporating outdoor activities and creative workshops. Flexible drop-off and pick-up times, along with extended hours, cater to working parents’ schedules. Specialized camps include a Forest Camp (August 11-15) and a Cinema & Photography Camp (July 7-11) for children aged 4 and above. Custom language camps in Russian, German, or Spanish are also available upon request. Register by May 31 via email to secure a spot.

PRACTICAL INFO
MIN AGE: 2
LOCATION: Petit-Lancy, Thonex, Epalinges,
PRICE:
LINK: totup.ch

INTERSOCCER

InterSoccer’s Summer Camps 2025 will run in exciting locations across Geneva and Vaud every week from the end of June to August. Open to girls and boys aged 3-13 of all abilities, these camps offer a fun and inclusive environment for young footballers to develop their skills. Whether beginners or experienced players, children will enjoy top-quality coaching from bilingual French and English-speaking coaches, stay active, and make new friends in a supportive and dynamic setting! Camp sessions will take place at top venues, including : Stade de Varembé (Nations), Stade de Frontenex, Vessy (Champel). Versoix Sports Center,Nyon Colovray Sports center, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Centre Sportif Etoy, Stade de Rochettaz Pully (Lausanne).

PRACTICAL INFO
MIN AGE: 3
LOCATION: Various (see above)
PRICE:from CHF275
LINK: intersoccer.ch

DEUTSCHE SCHULE GENEVA

Give your child a summer full of fun, creativity, and discovery with DSG Camps! At the German School Geneva, children do a full immersion into German language through play, imagination, and movement – guided by native German-speaking teachers. Each week brings an exciting new theme, sparking curiosity through games, sports, music, theatre, and crafts. Here, kids don’t just learn German—they live it, naturally and joyfully! Open to all levels – for both German & non-German speakers.

PRACTICAL INFO
DATES: 30 June – 4 July & 7-11 July
AGES: 4-13
LOCATION: Vernier
PRICE: from CHF700
LINK: dsgenf.ch

GYMBOREE BILINGUAL

Gymboree Bilingual Summer Camp offers an exciting and fun-filled experience. Children engage in various activities such as arts and crafts, music and songs, play and movement, story time and a choice of all Montessori activities. The camp focuses on individual growth as well as supporting social skills in a nurturing environment. Children explore new interests, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. We are a dedicated team of caring instructors to ensure that each child has a memorable and enriching experience.
Camp is Monday to Friday from 30 of June to 22 of August. You can book full days 8h30-16h30 or half days 8h30-12h / 13h-16h30.

PRACTICAL INFO
AGES: 3-6
LOCATION: Grand-Saconnex
PRICE: from CHF 370
LINK: gtmontessori.ch

COLLEGE DU LEMAN

Collège du Léman in Versoix are set on a stunning lakeside campus. Their camps welcome children and teens aged 8–18 for a highly customizable experience. Kids can choose from a wide range of activities—from robotics and entrepreneurship to circus arts and wakeboarding. Each camp is two weeks long, and children can choose four different activities to explore during that time. Whether you’re looking for a full-day camp or a boarding option, CDL offers a unique blend of learning and summer adventure in a truly exceptional setting.

PRACTICAL INFO:
AGE: 8-18
LOCATION: Versoix
PRICE: from CHF 3200
LINK: nordangliaeducation.com

SPELL LANGUAGES

With your kids in mind, Spell Languages has crafted camp programmes rich not only in language, but also in outings, play, music, and art! Entrust Spell team with your children for as many weeks as you wish and gift them a season of adventure in a language of your choice. From English, through French, German, Spanish and Italian their fun-filled, immersive camps in Geneva’s Plainpalais feature hand-picked themes and are led by experienced and passionate language teachers. Each week guides children through enchanting realms with daily outings, games in the park, arts and crafts, songs, and stories — creating unforgettable memories in a joyful, creative environment.

PARENTVILLE DISCOUNT: 100CHF off if enrolled till May 18 (valid for one week full day camps). CODE: Summer25

PRACTICAL INFO
MIN AGE: 4-10
LOCATION: Geneva
PRICE: from CHF460
LINK: Spell Languages

ILL CAMPS

Looking for a fun summer for your kids? IIL Camps offers over 60 camps for ages 3 to 17 in Geneva! Choose from sports, arts, tech, outdoor, water activities, and more. Camps are available in full-day or half-day formats and are open to all children. This year, we’re excited to offer a special hiking camp in the Alps and a musical comedy camp for teenagers ! Most camps are bilingual in French and English. Join us for enriching activities and unforgettable experiences. Camps run from July 1-18 and August 11-26, 2025. Prices start at 275 CHF/week for half days and 525 CHF/week for full days. More information at ILL Camps.

PRACTICAL INFO
AGES: 3-17
LOCATION: Lancy & more.
PRICE: from CHF 275
LINK: iil-camps.ch

SIMPLY THEATRE

Discover Simply Theatre’s exciting week-long summer camps for ages 5 to 17! From acting and musical theatre to improv, dance, and movie-making, there’s something for every young performer. Popular themes include Taylor Swift, Harry Potter, Disney, Broadway, and more. Camps run Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, with extended care available until 5:30pm. Led by professional tutors from the world of theatre, each camp offers a creative, nurturing, and unforgettable experience. Fees are 295CHF for ages 5–6 and 595CHF for ages 7–17, with a 10% sibling discount. Explore the full schedule and book your summer adventure now!

PRACTICAL INFO
AGES: 5-17
LOCATION: Versoix & Lancy (at ILL)
PRICE: from CHF295
LINK: simplytheatre.com

LA ROSE DES JEUX

PRACTICAL INFO
AGES: 13-15
LOCATION: Saint-George (VD)
PRICE: from CHF560
LINK: convergence.larosedesjeux.com

ASK ALL SPECIAL KIDS

Families looking for an inclusive summer experience in Geneva will be glad to discover ASK Bilingual Camp. Running from July 7th to 25th, this unique program is designed for children and teens aged 3–16 with Learning Differences and Special Educational Needs. The camp offers both half-day and full-day options for preschoolers and school-aged children, as well as a full-day program for tweens and teens. Activities are age-appropriate, skill-based, and guided by a team of specialists, including psychologists, drama teachers, therapists, and sports coaches. It’s a safe, supportive space for growth, fun, and connection during the summer break.

PRACTICAL INFO
AGES: 3-17
LOCATION: Grand-Saconnes & Secheron
PRICE: from CHF495
LINK: allspecialkids.org

OTHER FUN CAMPS:

AddictLab – programming, arts, robotics, and engineering, and all that to make the world a better place! In Geneva and in the beautiful Chateau Voltaire. Here’s the website.

Recrecrea – not confirmed yet but if Recrecrea does their summer camps again, it will be again one of the best camps in Geneva! All about creativity in various ways, using upcycling and recycling. Here’s more about Recrecrea.

Knock on Wood – fabulous woodworking camps in the Nations area, with a great option for sleephead teens. Check it here.

Gravity Park – urban move, parkour, jumps, and thrills with passionate friendly educators in a brilliant space! More info here.

Roller Geneve – great camp to learn how to move on roller blades or to improve the skills in a very friendly and fun atmosphere! Recommended by many parents. More here.

TipTopEvent – a summer camp for girls ages 6-12. June 30- July 4 or August 11-15 at Ferme du Lignon. More info here.

Hop into Easter: Family Fun in Geneva (2025 Edition)

Spring has sprung in Geneva, and with it comes a basketful of Easter fun for families! Whether hunting for eggs in the park, meeting the Easter Bunny, or looking for creative workshops to keep little hands busy during the holidays, something is egg-citing for everyone.

In this list, you’ll find a handpicked selection of the most fun, kid-friendly Easter events happening in and around Geneva over the next two weeks. Let’s make this Easter fun – one chocolate egg at a time!

Festival Pakatrap
April 12–13 & 18–21

The Festival Pakatrap returns with a vibrant lineup of Easter-themed activities across Geneva. Highlights include interactive egg hunts in the Old Town, city parks, or vinyards where children can solve riddles and embark on treasure hunts. The festival also features chocolate-making workshops and musical games, ensuring fun for all ages. More here.

Geneva Bucket List Egg Hunt
April 20

Join Geneva Bucket List for a free Easter egg hunt across three Geneva parks on April 20. In collaboration with Migros Geneve, Favarger, Othmane Khoris, and Laderach, this event promises delightful treats and surprises for all ages. Details here.

Grand Théâtre de Genève
April 13–16

Experience “Alice’s Adventures Under Ground,” an opera tailored for audiences aged 8 and above, at the Grand Théâtre de Genève. Running from April 13 to 16, this whimsical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tales offers a magical introduction to opera for young viewers. During the Easter holidays you can also participate in fun workshops for kids and families on April 24 & 30. Check it all here.

Château de Vullierens
April 19–21

Celebrate Easter amidst the blooming gardens of Château de Vullierens (canton Vaud). From April 19 to 21, children can participate in the “Great Golden Rabbits Hunt,” exploring the scenic grounds in search of hidden treasures. It’s a truly magical place to celebrate Easter! Book your tickets here.

Château de Voltaire Egg Hunt
April 20

On April 20, the historic Château de Voltaire in Ferney-Voltaire invites families to an Easter egg hunt in its expansive gardens. Explore the estate’s rich history while children search for hidden eggs in a picturesque setting. All information on their webiste.

Hameau du Père Noël Egg Hunt
From April 19

Experience a unique Easter celebration at Hameau du Père Noël in Andilly, France. Starting April 19, children can join Santa Claus in a festive egg hunt, blending Easter traditions with the magic of Christmas. Find out more.

Signal de Bougy Easter Celebration
April 20

Head to Signal de Bougy on April 20 for a day filled with Easter festivities. Activities include egg hunts, creative workshops, face painting, and a mini disco, ensuring entertainment for the entire family. All details here.

C si simple Easter Workshops
Various Dates

C si simple in Lancy offers parent-child cooking workshops and a special Easter brunch on April 21. These sessions provide an opportunity for families to bond over culinary creations in a cozy environment. Check it out.

Bioparc Genève Easter & Janus
April 21

Celebrate Easter at Bioparc Genève on April 21 with an array of activities, including an egg hunt and face painting. Engage with the park’s diverse animal residents while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Or, come on April 20 to celbrate Geneva’s most famous turtle – the two-headed Janus! More information on Bioparc’s website and Instagram account.

Don’t forget — beyond these great events, many communes, neighborhoods, and local maisons de quartier also organize their own Easter celebrations, often filled with charming surprises for little ones. Be sure to check what’s happening close to home — there’s likely something fun just around the corner!

Wishing you all a joyful, relaxing, and chocolate-filled Easter holiday!

Spring is here, and so are all the new opportunities for a fun family time in Geneva! Here’s Geneva’s spring bucket list for families with children.

Ready? Let’s do it!

LES HALLES DE LA JONCTION

Opening: end of March
This fabulous urban space, by the river, and open in all weather thanks to a huge roof, but still being an outdoors place thanks to not having any walls will be back. What you can do there? Eat in the vast food court, enjoy workshops, festivals, and special events. Kids will enjoy the inflatable Yatouland structures, and more will be announced soon! Stay tuned! More info here.

PARC AVENTURE

Opening: March 22.
This is a place all kids love! It offers treetop adventure obstacle courses with bridges, zip lines, and nets. Mini courses are available for ages 3–6, while older kids and adults can tackle larger courses based on height. The park features also three 160-meter zip lines! Located in a huge parc, and close to a great restaurant and a playground, it’s a perfect location for a family day out in spring. More info here.

SALEVE CABLE CAR

New season starts: April 1.
With the start of April the famous, and newly renovated cable car will be operating every day. a vast program of activities and attarctions will on from April 20. Deatils are still to be announced but it will surely unclude climbing wall courses, workshops by Maison du Saleve, and more! More info here.

CHATEAU DE VULLIERENS

Opening date: April 12.

This is a marvellous, the most magical place in the region. Located in canton Vaud, the castle offers a visit of its gardens. And as boring as it may sound – it is the opposite! It’s very playful, beautiful, and oh! There is even a forest with special attractions for children. Be sure to check their Easter celebrations – they are fantastic! place with a forest dedicated to kids! More details here.

SWISS VAPEUR PARC

Opening date: March 15.

Swiss Vapeur Parc is a miniature railway park on the other end of the lake. It offeris scenic train rides through detailed landscapes, lakes, and Swiss-style villages. Kids (and parents) can enjoy a journey on steam and electric trains – it’s really fun! The park features meticulously crafted bridges, tunnels, and stations, creating an immersive experience. More info here.