Founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291 Since 1891, the first of August has been celebrated as Swiss National Day. The date refers to a historic alliance concluded in 1291 by the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. This alliance was to become the focal point around which the Switzerland of today was built over the next 500 years. History of Swiss National Day At the time of the original Federal Charter, the Habsburgs were trying to secure a North-to-South route through Switzerland via the Gotthard Pass. The two cantons at the time, Uri Schwyz and Unterwalden, decided to stand together against outside aggressors. They signed an oath of allegiance on the meadows of Lake Lucerne, known as the Rütli meadow or Grütli Events of international and national importance: Exhibitions – Customs, Festivities and Markets – Festivals and Musicals – Fairs and Congresses – Sports Events Read about National Day in Switzerland in 2025. On August 1st 1291, the three forest cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden signed the Federal Charter on the Rütli field, near to Lake Lucerne. The Bundesfeier on August 1 is Switzerland's national holiday. The date was chosen because the Federal Charter of 1291 was dated “at the beginning of the month of August”. The document is considered one of the country's most important founding documents. Is Swiss National Day a Public Holiday? Swiss National Day is a public holiday. In a 1993 referendum, Swiss National Day was declared a public holiday throughout Switzerland. Bonfires are lit and fireworks are set off all over Switzerland on 1 August. In some places, children parade through the streets with lanterns bearing the Swiss cross and their canton's flag. Swiss National Day brings the whole country together in a way few other days can. It’s when flags fly from balconies, church bells ring out, and communities gather in parks, town squares, and open fields. Events of international and national importance: Exhibitions – Customs, Festivities and Markets – Festivals and Musicals – Fairs and Congresses – Sports Events Swiss National Day (German: Schweizer Bundesfeiertag; French: Fête nationale suisse; Italian: Festa nazionale svizzera; Romansh: Festa naziunala svizra) is the national holiday of Switzerland, set on 1 August. Why is August 1st celebrated as Swiss National Day? Every year on August 1st, people across Switzerland celebrate the country’s founding with fireworks, music, and patriotic pride. But have you ever wondered why this specific date was chosen as Swiss National Day? The answer goes back over 700 years, to a historic agreement among three Alpine regions that changed the course of European history. History of the swiss national holiday On August 1st, the Swiss commemorate the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291 with the Rütli Pact, an agreement among the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden to ensure mutual defense and freedom. This pact marks the origin of modern Switzerland, defined by its commitment to neutrality, independence, and federalism. The date was officially As August 1st approaches, Switzerland prepares to celebrate its National Day with a blend of historical reverence and festive joy. This day commemorates the 1291 Federal Charter, marking the alliance of the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, which laid the foundation for the Swiss Confederation. The celebrations are a vibrant tapestry of traditions, communal gatherings, and culinary 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. August 1, Swiss National Day, is celebrated in the country with a range of traditional customs. Some are older, some newer, and some are even a bit contrived – for example, the very date itself. Swiss National Day, celebrated on August 1, is the country’s national holiday. Although the Swiss Confederacy was founded on this date in 1891 and has been celebrated annually since 1899, it has only been an official holiday since 1994. Switzerland is a mountainous Central European country boasting several surreal lakes, villages, and the majestic Alps peaks. Its cities have medieval Swiss National Day is an annual public holiday in Switzerland taking place on August 1st. This day celebrates the foundation of the Swiss Confederacy, which according to legend, was formed by representatives of the three original cantons, Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, who took an oath of confederation in 1291. Founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291 Since 1891, the first of August has been celebrated as Swiss National Day. The date refers to a historic alliance concluded in 1291 by the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. This alliance was to become the focal point around which the Switzerland of today was built over the next 500 years. 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. Founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291 Since 1891, the first of August has been celebrated as Swiss National Day. The date refers to a historic alliance concluded in 1291 by the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. This alliance was to become the focal point around which the Switzerland of today was built over the next 500 years. Explore Switzerland's National Day (August 1st): Discover its rich history, vibrant traditions, and exciting festivities. Learn how Swiss citizens celebrate!
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