Good Friday Description
Good Friday (Karfreitag) commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is observed as a public holiday in most Swiss cantons, particularly those with Protestant and Catholic traditions. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday — April 3, 2026. In cantons where it is a holiday, public offices, banks, and schools are closed. Many businesses also close or operate reduced hours. Good Friday is considered a 'quiet day' (stiller Tag) in many cantons, meaning certain public entertainment, dancing, and sporting events may be restricted by local ordinance. Church services are widely held. In some cantons such as Ticino and Valais, the observance rules differ — travelers should check cantonal-specific regulations. Public transport generally operates on a weekend schedule.