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On Swiss National Day, Switzerland becomes a festive country: Festivals and celebrations take place all over the country. People start the day with a delicious Swiss National Day brunch, then go on an excursion or visit a National Day celebration, and finally enjoy the fireworks and bonfires. Swiss National Day at the Rhine Falls After sunset the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen are illuminated for the special event, and a fireworks display on July 31 is expected to attract thousands of spectators to this special site. Admission to this ethereal event is free. For something different, visitors can also reserve to enjoy a dinner and have special seats for the firework show, or even Swiss National Day is an occasion for all residents of Switzerland — including foreigners — to partake in various festivities that take places in towns and villages across the country. Here's what's happening this year. Day of August 1 events in Lucerne and the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region. Cultural events with flag-wavers, alphorn players & yodeling groups on Switzerland's national day. From 8:30 p.m. – BEACH PARTY with DJ set, performers, bar and snacks for grown-ups and children. Free admission for everyone. 10:30 p.m. – MUSICAL FIREWORKS DISPLAY – Show offered by Seven Group The Swiss National day takes place on the 1st of August every year. It celebrates the signing of the Swiss Federal Charter in 1291 in early August. It is a date that all Swiss celebrate in a variety of ways, from fireworks and bonfires to brunches and BBQs with friends. It is a national holiday that everybody gets with few exceptions. Today, Swiss National Day is celebrated with a range of activities, including fireworks, parades, cultural events, and community gatherings.The celebrations reflect the diversity and unity of Switzerland, bringing together people from different regions and backgrounds to honor their shared heritage. Switzerland celebrates its National Day on August 1. It has been a statutory public holiday since 1891. Therefore most people have the day off work and are able to celebrate together with their family or friends. Together they barbecue, relax, and in the evening marvel at a sparkling show of numerous small private fireworks – the city does not have an official 1st of August fireworks display Events of international and national importance: Exhibitions – Customs, Festivities and Markets – Festivals and Musicals – Fairs and Congresses – Sports Events Discover the rich traditions and events of Swiss National Day, celebrated on August 1st, with a focus on canton-specific festivities, family activities, and culinary delights. Farms open for bookings in the spring and fill up fast. How to Book: Keep an eye on the official Swiss Farmers’ Brunch website to find a farm near you and reserve your table. For the “Wow” Factor: Where to See Real Fireworks If your heart is set on a sky full of spectacular fireworks, you just need to take a little day trip. The annual celebration of Swiss National Day is a unique and truly patriotic event held all over Switzerland every summer, to mark the nation's coming into existence. Booming fireworks, a sea of red and white flags, and a whole day away from the office are the norm in the country on every August 1. The Vibe in the Lucerne Region: For those living in or near Central Switzerland, the celebration around Lake Lucerne is all about that quintessential summer feeling with music and food. The town of Brunnen, in particular, hosts a two-day party. My Personal Tip: The fireworks in Brunnen on the evening of August 1st are spectacular. Giving us a perfect long weekend to enjoy the wide variety of activities and summer vibes! I often get DMs asking for my take on things to do on the national day. Enjoy the many village festivals on Swiss National Day, with culinary delights and musical performances. Enjoy special National Day brunches in one of the many villages or in the Alps. As night falls, watch the blazing lights of the bonfires around the lakes of Thun and Brienz and admire the colourful firework displays reflected in the waters. On August 1 each year, Switzerland celebrates its own founding with bonfires, flags, and speeches. Customs range from traditional to modern – with fireworks still a big bone of contention. Events of international and national importance: Exhibitions – Customs, Festivities and Markets – Festivals and Musicals – Fairs and Congresses – Sports Events Swiss National Day in Lausanne The National Day festivities will be in full swing from July 31 to August 3, 2025 at the Place de la Navigation in Ouchy, on the lakefront, with a bevy of musical performances History of Switzerland National Day Every year on August 1, there are bonfires, paper lantern parades, fireworks, and Swiss flags swaying in the breeze. Swiss National Day was first established in 1891, yet it took more than a century for the hardworking Swiss to decide to hold a vote and give themselves the day off. Swiss National Day is a unique and patriotic event celebrated across the country to celebrate Switzerland becoming an independent confederation. Swiss flags are everywhere on August 1, like on buildings, balconies, and church belltowers.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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