Swiss National Day Description
Swiss National Day (Nationalfeiertag) on August 1st is the only federal holiday enshrined in the Swiss Constitution, making it a nationwide public holiday obligatory across all 26 cantons. It commemorates the founding of the Swiss Confederacy in 1291 with the signing of the Federal Charter. Celebrations include spectacular fireworks displays over lakes and mountains — Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen are among the most famous viewing spots. Towns and villages hold bonfires, lantern processions, and public concerts featuring traditional alphorn and yodeling performances. Many Swiss display flags and wear traditional attire. Bakeries sell special August 1st bread rolls (1.-August-Weggli) adorned with the Swiss cross. Government offices, banks, and most businesses are closed. Public transport runs on a Sunday schedule, though special late-night services are often added for firework-goers. Restaurants and mountain railways in tourist areas generally remain open. Since August 1, 2026 falls on a Saturday, many workers will already be off, and no substitute public holiday is granted.
