Switzerland is known for its rich cultural diversity, and this is reflected in its public holidays. Public Holidays in Switzerland in 2025 offer a mix of national, regional, and religious celebrations, giving locals and visitors a chance to experience unique Swiss traditions. Each canton may observe different holidays, with some festivals celebrated only in specific regions. From national events like Swiss National Day to religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter, these public holidays provide opportunities for family gatherings, community events, and relaxation. Understanding the significance of these days offers a deeper insight into Switzerland’s heritage and cultural values.
Public Holidays in Switzerland in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Switzerland in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Berchtold’s Day | Jan 02, 2025 | Thursday |
| Epiphany | Jan 06, 2025 | Monday |
| Republic Day | Mar 01, 2025 | Saturday |
| St. Joseph’s Day | Mar 19, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Näfelser Fahrt | Apr 03, 2025 | Thursday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Ascension Day | May 29, 2025 | Thursday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| Corpus Christi | Jun 19, 2025 | Thursday |
| Independence Day | Jun 23, 2025 | Monday |
| Saints Peter and Paul | Jun 29, 2025 | Sunday |
| National Day | Aug 01, 2025 | Friday |
| Assumption | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| Jeûne genevois | Sep 11, 2025 | Thursday |
| Swiss Federal Fast | Sep 21, 2025 | Sunday |
| Federal Fast Monday | Sep 22, 2025 | Monday |
| Saint Nicholas of Flüe Day | Sep 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| All Saints Day | Nov 01, 2025 | Saturday |
| Immaculate Conception | Dec 08, 2025 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| St. Stephen’s Day | Dec 26, 2025 | Friday |
| Restoration Day | Dec 31, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Also Read: Public Holidays in Suriname in 2025 |
New Year’s Day (January 1)
In Switzerland, as in many parts of the world, New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the new year. It’s a public holiday where families and friends gather to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the year ahead. The day is often filled with festivities, fireworks, and traditional meals. Many Swiss people enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, while others prefer to spend the day relaxing at home. The holiday provides an opportunity to rest and recharge before returning to work.
Berchtold’s Day (January 2)
Berchtold’s Day is mainly celebrated in certain regions of Switzerland, particularly in the cantons of Zurich, Aargau, and Lucerne. It is believed to have pagan roots, with the holiday named after a figure known as Berchtold or Perchta, associated with ancient midwinter traditions. Social gatherings, community events, and feasts mark the day. Although it has lost much of its original significance, it remains a time for Swiss people to enjoy the last moments of the holiday season before returning to regular life.
Epiphany (January 6)
Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, commemorates the visit of the Magi (Three Wise Men) to the baby Jesus in Christian tradition. In Switzerland, the day is particularly important in Catholic regions, where religious services and the blessing of homes mark it. One popular tradition is the “Three Kings Cake” (Dreikönigskuchen), a sweet bread where a small figurine is hidden inside. The one who discovers the figure in their portion is designated as “king” or “queen” for the day. It symbolizes the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah by the Gentiles.
Republic Day (March 1)
Republic Day is observed in the canton of Neuchâtel, celebrating its transition from a monarchy to a republic in 1848. The day marks the end of the rule by the kings of Prussia and the beginning of a more democratic governance system. On this day, people reflect on the importance of liberty, equality, and civic rights. Public events, speeches, and festivities highlight the republic’s values, making it a day of both historical significance and local pride in Neuchâtel.
St. Joseph’s Day (March 19)
St. Joseph’s Day is celebrated in certain Catholic cantons of Switzerland. It commemorates St. Joseph, the spouse of the Virgin Mary and the guardian of Jesus Christ throughout his upbringing. It is a religious holiday marked by church services, prayers, and special devotions. St. Joseph is considered a symbol of humility, hard work, and family values, making the day a celebration of fatherhood and the importance of family. In some regions, processions and festivals are held to honor his role in Christian tradition.
Näfelser Fahrt (April 3)
Näfelser Fahrt is a historical commemoration in the canton of Glarus, marking the victory of Swiss forces over the Habsburg army in 1388 at the Battle of Näfels. This day is observed with a procession from Glarus to Näfels, where participants reflect on the battle and the unity of the Swiss Confederation. It’s a time for local citizens to honor their ancestors’ bravery and the spirit of independence. The tradition has been observed for centuries and continues to be an important regional event in Glarus.
Good Friday (April 18)
Good Friday is a profoundly sorrowful Christian observance commemorating Jesus’ crucifixion. In Switzerland, particularly in Protestant cantons, it is a day of quiet reflection and mourning. Churches hold special services, and many Swiss people attend prayers to meditate on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. Businesses and schools close for the day, and public activities are minimal. Good Friday serves as a prelude to Easter, reminding believers of the suffering endured by Jesus for humanity’s redemption.
Easter Monday (April 21)
The celebrations of Jesus Christ’s resurrection continue on Easter Monday, which is a public holiday in Switzerland, the day following Easter Sunday. It is a time for family gatherings, picnics, and outdoor activities as spring begins to bloom. While the religious significance centers on Christ’s victory over death, for many Swiss, the day is an opportunity to relax and enjoy time with loved ones. In some regions, traditional Easter egg hunts are held, and festive meals are shared, marking the joyful end of the Easter weekend.
Labour Day (May 1)
On May 1, which is also known as Labour Day, the labor movement and the contributions of laborers in Switzerland and around the world are commemorated. It is a public holiday in certain cantons and is marked by parades, speeches, and demonstrations advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions. While the day has a political significance, it is also a time for many people to enjoy a day off, attend social events, or participate in community activities that promote solidarity among workers.
Ascension Day (May 29)
Ascension Day is a Christian holiday celebrated 40 days after Easter, marking the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. In Switzerland, it is a public holiday observed with church services, prayers, and religious processions. The day symbolizes Christ’s completion of his earthly mission and his return to God the Father. In addition to its religious importance, many Swiss people use the day to spend time outdoors, as the holiday often falls in late spring, making it an ideal time for hiking or picnicking.
Whit Monday (June 9)
The day following Pentecost, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, is known as Whit Monday or Pentecost Monday. In Switzerland, Whit Monday is observed in some cantons, particularly in Catholic regions, as a public holiday. The day is marked by religious services, where Christians celebrate the birth of the Church and the spreading of the Gospel. For many Swiss people, it is also a time to relax, enjoy family gatherings, and participate in outdoor activities, taking advantage of the early summer weather.
Corpus Christi (June 19)
Corpus Christi is a Catholic holiday celebrated in Switzerland to honor the Eucharist or the body and blood of Christ. The day is observed with processions and religious ceremonies, particularly in Catholic cantons. It is an expression of faith in the real presence of Christ in the sacrament of Communion. Corpus Christi celebrations often include beautifully decorated streets, as believers walk through towns carrying the Eucharist in a solemn procession, accompanied by hymns and prayers.
Independence Day (July 9)
Independence Day in Switzerland is not a national event, but in some regions, like Jura, there is an emphasis on local independence. For instance, the canton of Jura celebrates its autonomy after separating from the canton of Bern in 1979. This day is marked by local festivities, parades, and public speeches that celebrate the region’s unique identity and self-determination. It is a day of regional pride and remembrance of the political struggles that led to independence.
Saints Peter and Paul (June 29)
Saints Peter and Paul Day are celebrated in Switzerland, especially in Catholic regions, to honor these two important apostles. Saint Peter, the first pope, and Saint Paul, the great missionary, are considered the founders of the Christian Church. Church services, prayers, and religious festivals mark the day. In some areas, there are processions and special masses to reflect on the lives and teachings of these two apostles, who played crucial roles in spreading Christianity.
National Day (August 1)
Switzerland’s National Day is celebrated on August 1, commemorating the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. Parades, fireworks, speeches, and community gatherings throughout the country mark this patriotic holiday. People display the Swiss flag, sing the national anthem, and participate in traditional Swiss activities like alphorn playing and yodeling. Bonfires are also lit to symbolize unity and freedom. It is a day for Swiss people to celebrate their rich history, democratic values, and the diversity of their regions.
Assumption (August 15)
Assumption Day is a Catholic holiday in Switzerland. It celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken up to heaven, body and soul, at the end of her earthly life. It is observed in Catholic cantons with church services and religious processions. The day honors Mary’s purity, faith, and role as the mother of Jesus. Many Swiss Catholics attend mass and participate in prayers, reflecting on Mary’s significance in the Christian faith. It is also a day for family gatherings and relaxation.
Jeûne genevois (September 4)
Jeûne genevois, or Geneva Fast, is a public holiday in the canton of Geneva, originally established as a day of fasting and reflection. The tradition dates back to the 16th century and was initially observed as a way to give thanks for surviving difficult times, such as wars or epidemics. Today, while the religious fasting aspect has faded, it remains a day of rest and contemplation for many Genevans. Some people use the day for family outings or cultural activities, but its historical roots in gratitude and reflection remain significant.
Swiss Federal Fast (September 15)
Swiss Federal Fast is a unique holiday observed across Switzerland, reflecting a centuries-old tradition of fasting, prayer, and giving thanks. It originated in the 19th century as a way to promote national unity and seek divine guidance for the country’s well-being. Although the religious aspect has diminished over time, the day remains a public holiday in most cantons, with people often attending church services or spending time in quiet reflection. Some Swiss families use the holiday for outdoor activities and social gatherings.
Federal Fast Monday (September 16)
Federal Fast Monday is observed in conjunction with the Swiss Federal Fast, continuing the spirit of reflection and thanksgiving. While it is not a public holiday in all cantons, it is recognized in some regions as a day of quiet contemplation. The holiday emphasizes humility, gratitude, and the importance of national unity. In areas where it is observed, people may attend church services or use the day for relaxation and spending time with family. It serves as a calm conclusion to the weekend of the Federal Fast.
Saint Nicholas of Flüe Day (September 21)
Saint Nicholas of Flüe Day celebrates Switzerland’s patron saint, Nicholas of Flüe, a 15th-century hermit, mystic, and statesman. Known for his deep spirituality and influence in mediating political conflicts, Nicholas of Flüe is revered for helping to preserve Swiss unity during a crisis. The day is observed with church services and prayers, particularly in Catholic regions. Swiss people reflect on his contributions to peace and stability in the country, making him an enduring symbol of Swiss unity and wisdom.
All Saints Day (November 1)
In certain cantons of Switzerland, All Saints Day is a Catholic holiday that is observed to commemorate all saints, both known and unknown. It is a day of reflection and remembrance, where people visit cemeteries to pay respects to deceased loved ones. In Catholic regions, church services are held to celebrate the lives of saints who have been canonized and those who lived virtuous lives. The day is a time for Swiss families to come together, honor their ancestors, and reflect on the spiritual significance of the saints in the Christian faith.
Immaculate Conception (December 8)
The Catholic cantons of Switzerland commemorate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It commemorates the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. It is an important religious day marked by church services, prayers, and processions. The Immaculate Conception is viewed as a symbol of purity and grace, and many Swiss Catholics use the day to reflect on Mary’s role in the Christian faith. The holiday also serves as a time for families to gather and prepare for the Christmas season.
Christmas Day (December 25)
In Switzerland, Christmas Day is a big holiday that marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time for getting together with family, giving gifts, and eating holiday meals. In the days leading up to Christmas, many Swiss towns host Christmas markets, where people can buy decorations gifts, and enjoy seasonal treats. On Christmas Day, families attend church services to celebrate the religious significance of Christ’s birth. The holiday also has a strong cultural component, with traditions like decorating Christmas trees and singing carols.
St. Stephen’s Day (December 26)
St. Stephen’s Day is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas, to honor St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In Switzerland, the day is observed with church services and is a time for relaxation after the Christmas festivities. While it is a religious holiday, many people use the day to visit family and friends or enjoy outdoor activities like skiing. It allows individuals to take additional time off to relax and spend time with their families before returning to work.
Restoration Day (December 31)
Restoration Day is observed in the canton of Geneva, celebrating the restoration of the republic after the Napoleonic occupation in 1813. The day marks the return of Geneva’s independence and the re-establishment of its political system. It is a day of local pride, with events, speeches, and historical reenactments that reflect the city’s resilience and determination. The holiday also serves as a time for Genevans to gather with family and friends, share a meal and prepare for the New Year celebrations.