Holidays & Celebrations

Mark your calendars with Switzerland’s public holidays, attend the local celebrations and festivals, and take part in the country’s holiday traditions.

Public holidays in Switzerland in 2026

Find out when Switzerland’s public holidays are in 2024, 2025, and 2026, as well as other important dates to note on your calendar.

Swiss National Day: what to do and where to celebrate

Celebrate the Swiss Confederation like a local with our guide to everything you need to know about Swiss National Day in the alpine nation.

The best festivals in Switzerland

From jazz festivals and snow sculpture shows to yodeling competitions and hot air balloon events, here are the best festivals in Switzerland.

Fasnacht: how the Swiss celebrate carnival

Fasnacht is when the Swiss let their hair down. Discover everything you need to know about Fasnacht with our guide to the Swiss carnival.

10 Christmas traditions in Switzerland

Discover the magic of Swiss Christmas traditions with this list of ways to celebrate the festive season in Switzerland.

Samichlaus and Schmutzli greet a little girl on her father's shoulders

Swiss Samichlaus and his menacing helper, Schmutzli

Have you heard of Samichlaus and Schmutzli? Get into the holiday spirit with Switzerland’s Christmas version of a good cop/bad cop routine.

Family of four sitting on picnic mat looking at Matterhorn mountain and lake.

Swiss school holidays in 2025–2026

Want to take your kids on a vacation? Here are the Swiss school holidays for 2025–2026 and 2026–2027, plus tips for expat parents. School breaks are the perfect time to have fun and quality time with your children. For parents, knowing these dates is crucial for planning holidays, family visits, and exciting activities. It’s also […]