Through their program, the participants contribute to a better understanding of the popular traditions of their country, both among the other participants and among a large part of the population. They will strive, for their part, to better understand the cultural heritage and customs of other peoples. To reinforce this approach, the ensembles will mingle with each other in an atmosphere of friendship. Each year more than 250 international festivals of folklore and traditional arts are organized under the aegis of CIOFF. The CIOFF Festivals bring together some 50,000 artists each year. More than 20,000 volunteers are involved in CIOFF events every year.

CIOFF Switzerland counts various international festivals among its members, some of which have obtained the “CIOFF label”. The festivals bearing the mention “CIOFF” have obtained this distinction because of the quality of organization and the high artistic level of their events. But CIOFF Switzerland also aims to support national and regional festivals that work to safeguard and disseminate traditional and popular cultures.