Swiss customs are celebrated not only through breathtaking mountains and fine chocolate but also through a rich cultural scene that comes alive in an array of vibrant festivals. Each season showcases unique traditions and colorful events that attract both locals and visitors alike. To truly experience the essence of Switzerland and witness its distinctive customs, plan your trip around the country’s major festivals.

Winter: Carnivals and ancient rituals

The winter season in Switzerland is known for its colourful carnivals, which are especially popular in February and March. One of the most famous is the Basler Fasnacht (Basel Carnival), which is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Site. It starts at 4am with the Morgestreich lantern parade, when the whole city is plunged into darkness and participants with lanterns and masks take to the streets. For three days the streets of Basel are transformed into a colourful spectacle with music, costumes and theatrical performances. Another interesting winter festival is the Lucerne Carnival, which features a parade of masks and costumed characters that create an atmosphere of real magic.

In winter, Engadin also hosts the traditional festival of Hom Strom, associated with the ancient ritual of seeing off winter. At the end of February, locals build a huge bonfire of straw and burn it to hasten the arrival of spring. This ritual, full of symbolism, attracts many spectators and allows you to touch ancient traditions.

Spring: Easter and music festivals

Switzerland blossoms in spring with festivities associated with Easter and the start of the warm season. The Sechseläuten festival in Zurich marks the arrival of spring. During the festival, locals burn a snowman doll called Böögg, which symbolises winter. The faster the Böögg burns, the warmer and more pleasant the coming summer season promises to be. This spectacle attracts thousands of visitors and reminds them of the significance of the transition to the warm season.

Summer: Folklore and folk traditions

The summer months are a time of colourful folklore festivals and celebrations that introduce visitors to traditional Swiss culture. In July, Geneva hosts the Lake Geneva Festival, which includes parades, fairs and a grand fireworks show. Summer is a good time to visit the Alpine Shepherds Festival in the canton of Valais, which features a parade of cows decorated with flowers and bells. This festival celebrates shepherds returning from the pastures and gives a different perspective on life in the Swiss Alps.

Another significant summer event is Swiss National Day, which is celebrated on 1 August. The celebration includes fireworks, parades and concerts throughout the country. It is celebrated in a particularly colourful way in the canton of Schwyz, where the idea of the Swiss Confederation was born.

When to go to see more?

When planning a trip to Switzerland, it's worth paying attention to its calendar of unique holidays and festivals. If you want to embrace traditional culture and see unique rituals, it's best to visit the country in winter or summer, when iconic carnivals and folk festivals take place. Spring and autumn won't disappoint either, especially if you're interested in music and art. Every season in Switzerland offers something special, and no matter what time you choose, the country will provide you with an unforgettable experience of culture, history and people.