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. 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. Discover all about public holidays in and around Zurich. There are 12 public holidays in Zurich, during which shops are closed, children don't go to school and the majority of people are not at work. Ten of these public holidays are recognized throughout Switzerland as public holidays – Good Friday, Easter Monday and Christmas for example. The Swiss Psalm and the legend of William Tell reinforce the national identity, while bonfires and fireworks light up the Alps and cities. Whether you are in Zurich, Lugano or an Alpine village, 1 August is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Swiss culture! Swiss National Day is a celebration that happens every year on August 1st in Switzerland. Learn about traditions and events during this day! Swiss National Day 2025 offers vibrant parades, fireworks, and traditional treats across Switzerland’s lakes and mountains. Learn how to redeem miles for a front-row seat to this iconic celebration on 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. 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. 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. Swiss National Day in Zurich This is how Zurich’s inhabitants celebrate Swiss National Day on August 1. 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. Having the day off on August 1 probably goes without saying for many people. But this is only the 30th year that the whole country has the day off on Swiss National Day. 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. The Swiss government decided to celebrate the country’s founding every August 1st from 1899 onwards. Swiss National Day Traditions Since the Swiss National Day celebrations began in 1899, the Swiss locals have found a range of ways to mark the day. The following are some of the most popular you will see around the country. Celebrate 1st August Swiss National Day in Style Things To Do In and Around Zurich on Swiss National Day 1st August Swiss National Day – Schweizer Bundesfeiertag 1st August is a very important day in the Swiss calendar – it’s the National Day of Switzerland or “Schweizer Bundesfeiertag”. 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. Switzerland’s National Day on Friday August 1st is a public holiday, which means most shops and other businesses will be closed. Swiss National Day 2024 Swiss National Day, celebrated on August 1st each year, marks the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. This date commemorates the signing of the Federal Charter of 1291, which united three cantons in a pact of mutual defense. Switzerland celebrates its birthday! On the national holiday, the federal city presents its residents and guests with entertaining experiences and festivities for young and old. On Swiss National Day, August 1, citizens gather on this meadow just above Lake Uri to remember this sworn oath. August 1 is a symbolic date inspired by the Federal Charter of 1291, which dates it early in August 1291. In the 14th century, other cantons such as Zurich, Lucerne, Glarus, Zug, and Bern joined the Swiss Confederation. As a local who is completely obsessed with making the most of every holiday, I get asked a lot by friends: “What should we actually do for Swiss National Day?” So, I’ve put together my personal guide—not just a list of events, but my curated recommendations for an experience you’ll genuinely love. Let’s dive in.
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