Whit Monday Description
Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) falls on Monday, May 25, 2026, the day after Whit Sunday (Pentecost), which is 50 days after Easter. It is a public holiday in most Swiss cantons, though not all — it is not observed in Valais and has limited observance in Ticino. In observing cantons, government offices, banks, schools, and many businesses close. The holiday has Christian origins, marking the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, though for most Swiss it is primarily enjoyed as a spring long weekend. Outdoor activities, family gatherings, and short trips are popular. Church services are held on Whit Sunday, while Monday is typically a day of rest. Public transport runs on weekend schedules. As with other religious holidays in Switzerland, travelers should verify cantonal observance before planning activities.