Public and Bank Holidays in Switzerland 2024

Switzerland, famed for its stunning scenery and rich cultural tapestry, also boasts a vibrant calendar of public holidays. These holidays offer a chance to delve into Swiss traditions, witness festive celebrations, and enjoy extended weekends perfect for exploring the country’s hidden gems. In 2024, several public holidays fall on weekdays, creating opportunities for longer breaks to discover charming towns, majestic mountains, and serene lakes.

Here’s a glimpse into the upcoming Swiss public holidays for 2024:

• January 1st – New Year’s Day (Neujahr): Marking the start of a new year, this national holiday is a time for reflection and celebrations. Expect most businesses to be closed.

• January 2nd – Berchtoldstag (Berchtold’s Day): Celebrated primarily in the canton of Zurich, this public holiday commemorates the city’s founder.

• March 29th – Good Friday (Karfreitag): A solemn Christian holy day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many shops may have adjusted hours.

• April 1st – Easter Monday (Ostermontag): Following Easter Sunday, this public holiday is a time for families and friends to gather for festivities.

• April 8th – Federal Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving (Bettag): A unique Swiss holiday dedicated to prayer, reflection, and expressing gratitude.

• April 9th – Easter Monday (Ostermontag – some cantons): Observed in some cantons like Lucerne and Ticino, offering an extended Easter weekend.

• April 10th – Good Friday (Karfreitag – some cantons): Celebrated as a public holiday in some cantons like Uri and Valais.

• May 17th – Ascension Day (Auffahrt): A Christian holiday commemorating Jesus’ ascension into heaven.

• May 18th – Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag): Marking the end of the Easter season and the descent of the Holy Spirit, some cantons like Basel-Landschaft observe this as a public holiday.

• August 1st – Swiss National Day (Schweizer Nationalfeiertag): The most important national holiday, it celebrates the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. Expect fireworks displays, parades, and patriotic festivities.

• September 2nd – Monday following Geneva Watchmaking Fair (Lundi de Jeûne): Observed only in the canton of Geneva, this public holiday follows the Geneva Watchmaking Fair.

• December 25th – Christmas Day (Weihnachten): A major Christian holiday for family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and attending church services. Expect most businesses to be closed.

• December 26th – St. Stephen’s Day (Stephanstag): A public holiday for relaxation after Christmas festivities.

Important to Remember: While this list covers all federal public holidays in Switzerland for 2024, cantons have the autonomy to declare additional holidays. It’s always wise to check with local authorities or tourist information centers for any variations specific to a particular region. Shops in major tourist areas might maintain adjusted hours on certain holidays.

So, immerse yourself in the spirit of celebration and embark on a memorable journey through Switzerland’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture in 2024!