Imagine a country where every corner tells a story, where history and culture are woven into daily life—that’s Switzerland for you. As a proud local, I can tell you that traditions here aren’t just preserved; they’re celebrated with heart and soul. From lively village gatherings to spectacular nationwide events, the Swiss have mastered the art of keeping their customs alive and thriving.
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through 11 fascinating customs and traditions in Switzerland. Each one offers a glimpse into our country’s vibrant local, regional, and national heritage. Whether it’s a centuries-old festival or a quirky modern-day ritual, these traditions are a testament to the Swiss spirit. Let’s dive in!
1. Carnival
Carnival, or “Fasnacht” as we call it in German-speaking Switzerland, is an explosion of color, music, and fun that takes over the streets every year. While it’s celebrated across the country, Catholic regions pull out all the stops, especially in Lucerne, where the festivities last for a full six days! The city comes alive with vibrant parades, joyful music, and traditions that bring locals and visitors together in a whirlwind of celebration. It’s all about laughter, creativity, and pure joy.
But here’s a twist you might not expect: Basel, a historically Protestant city, hosts one of Switzerland’s most iconic Carnivals too! Basel’s Carnival kicks off a week after Ash Wednesday and begins in the most dramatic way imaginable—at 4 a.m. sharp, with the “Morgenstreich.” Picture the city plunged into darkness, then suddenly lit up by lanterns as piccolos and drums create an unforgettable soundscape.
For the next three days, the streets are filled with thousands of costumed locals—some funny, some spooky, some inspired by current events—all marching in parades, playing traditional music, and keeping the festive spirit alive. It’s an incredible sight, with up to 11,000 participants making it a can’t-miss experience for anyone in Switzerland during Carnival season!
2. Tschäggättä
In the Loetschental Valley, February brings a spooky twist to the traditional spring festival. Fierce creatures, called Tschaggatta, march the villages, wearing creepy masks made from local wood and covered in sheep or goat leather.
They’re dressed in furry costumes and carry sticks, looking like they just stepped out of a horror movie. To keep their identities secret, they even wear sacks on their feet!
If you’re out during Carnival season, you might see these mysterious figures in the evenings. But be aware: if they spot you, they might just try to give you a sticky, gloved high-five on the face. During certain parades, you can see up to 100 Tschaggatta marching together.
3. Chalandamarz
Chalandamarz is a fun tradition that’s super popular in Switzerland. It all started with a children’s book called «Schellen-Ursli» written by a local author, Selina Chönz. Every March, kids in the mountain villages, especially in Engadine and Val Müstair, get together to celebrate. They sing, ring big loud cowbells, and crack whips while walking through the streets.
4. Sechseläuten
In Zurich, there is a special festival that comes at the end of the winter. It is known as “Sechseläuten,” which means ringing the six o’clock bells. It usually takes place on the third Monday in April unless it happens at the same time as Easter, in which case it’s a week later.
The reason it’s not in March because the weather was often unpredictable then, so they decided to celebrate it a month later. This spring festival has a rich history, dating back to 1818, when a group of craftsmen started having nighttime parades on horseback with music.
Just a year later, different groups started marching through the town, playing music and carrying torches. By 1820, they were working together to create a big parade. In 1839, all the groups came together to create the first official Sechseläuten procession.
Since 1862, the celebration’s highlight has been burning a giant 80 kg “snowman” called the Böögg. This three-meter-tall figure is stuffed with fireworks and set on fire at exactly 6 pm.
When its head bursts into flames, it marks the official end of winter. According to tradition, the faster it explodes, the longer and hotter the summer will be.
5. Swiss National Day
Every year, on August 1, the people of Switzerland celebrate National Day. This day is special because, in 1291, three cantons came together on a field called Rütli near Lake Lucerne and promised to work together as a team. To celebrate, people all over the country gather to listen to inspiring speeches, and at night, they light big bonfires and set off fireworks to mark the occasion.
6. Schwingen (Alpine Wrestling)
Alpine wrestling is a traditional sport in Switzerland. It is considered really tough competition that tests how strong and fit you are. Two wrestlers wear special shorts and try to throw each other to the ground.
They do this in a circle of sawdust, often in a beautiful mountain field. This sport is very popular in Switzerland and is like a national favorite. The winner gets a prize – a bull!- and can also get money and sponsorship from big companies.
7. Cattle Descent
In September, before it gets cold in the mountains, villages all over the country have descents. If you plan it right, you can go to four or five of these descents in just a few weeks.
The villages will have stalls, music, and food. You can drink a cold beer while listening to music with friendly local people wearing special clothes.
8. Unspunnenfest
There’s a super fun festival in a pretty town called Interlaken in Switzerland. It’s right near a really famous mountain called the Jungfrau. At the festival, you can see Schwingen, Yodelling, Alphorn blowing, and stone-throwing (steintossen).
You’ll also see people wearing traditional clothes and doing traditional dances. The main event is where people try to throw a huge rock as far as they can. But, weirdly, someone stole the rock twice. On Sunday, there’s a big parade where you can see all the different costumes from the area.
9. Zibelemärit (Onion Market)
In Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, there’s a special onion market that happens every year on the fourth Monday of November. Zibelemärit, starts really early – at 5 am. It’s filled with onion bread, onion pies, and even onion soup. You can also find lots of other cool stuff that’s all about onions.
10. Fête de l’Escalade
Geneva has a big party on December 11 to remember when the city was saved. In 1602, some Duke of Savoy tried to climb over the city walls, but the people of Geneva fought back. One brave Soldier even got poured hot soup and had a big pot broken over his head to scare them.
People make special chocolate pots, break them, and eat the yummy chocolate to celebrate. They also have a fun walk at night dressing up in old clothes, a bonfire in the main square, and a run through the old part of town.
11. St Nicholas’ Day Traditions
People celebrate St Nicholas’ Day (December 6) at the end of November in the Glarus Region and keep celebrating until early January in Appenzeller Hinterland.
On St Nicholas’ Day (“Samichlaus” in German-speaking Switzerland), kids are the show’s stars. In some areas, kids learn special Samichlaus verses to say to Samichlaus (who dresses up like a bishop) and his helpers (Schmutzli, Butzli, père fouettard). If they say the verses right, they get sweets.
Did you know that in some parts of Switzerland, there are even lady versions of St Nicholas? In Italian-speaking areas, she’s called Befana, and in French-speaking areas, she’s called Chauche-vieille.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Switzerland’s rich tapestry of traditions offers a unique insight into the heart of our culture. From the charming rituals in small villages to grand national celebrations, each custom tells a story of unity, pride, and timeless values. As we continue to embrace and celebrate these traditions, we ensure that Switzerland’s vibrant heritage remains alive for generations to come.
