When is Swiss National Day?
The Swiss National Day has always held on the first of August ever since the first one back in 1891.
So, what exactly is Swiss National Day all about?
Switzerland’s national day is all about the founding of the confederation which is quite similar to many other countries national days. It celebrates that back in 1291 the country marked an alliance between the three cantons of Switzerland: Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. If anyone was wandering cantons are Switzerland’s equivalent of states in America. The incredibly successful and highly appraised partnership or alliance led to the Switzerland we all know and love today. We asked Switzerland resident Roger what the best part of living in Switzerland is, his reply was “Well the flag is a big plus”…
If you’re still reading this after that appalling joke then I apologise but thank you for sticking with us.
How did the alliance come about?
The continent was slowly being taken over by the Austrian royal dynasty and something had to be done, so the three cantons agreed to mutually help one another fight against the House of Habsburgs. The royals attempted to strengthen their position in the region leading to the Gotthard Pass which is what prompted the three cantons to swear an oath to one another and it was definitely a picturesque day for it, they made the formal agreement in August 1291 whilst in a meadow surrounded by cows in Uri near Lake Lucerne. I mean could this get any more encompassing of Switzerland?
How do the Swiss celebrate the day?
There will be a radio and TV broadcast from the President of the Swiss confederation as well as speeches by public figures, music concerts, gymnastic displays, fireworks, bonfires, and national anthem recitals.
Children sometimes light paper lanterns and communities decorate buildings with flags. It seems that in Switzerland health and safety actually allow paper lanterns which we think is great however its a shame our Swiss friends living with us in the UK wont be allowed to do this due to it being “in breech of health and safety legislation set out by the local councils”. This being said they will be able to hang bunting in true British fashion. Swiss bakers also make their signature special rolls which feature a cute Swiss flag on top, yummy. There has been a special celebration at Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, where the waterfall is illuminated and fireworks are set off which has happened every year since 1920.
Finally another celebration at Rütli Meadow in Uri to mark where the pledge of allegiance was made. A list of the full events across Switzerland can be found here.
How do the Swiss celebrate in the UK?
There is a range of events taking place across Britain for anyone looking to celebrate their Swiss roots or for those who just want to join in the party. There is an event which is held by the Swiss society Unione Ticinese at the Swiss Church in London between 4pm and 9pm with a whole host of Swiss alcohol including beer, wine and traditional Swiss dishes from Mosimann.
The Swiss Club London hasn’t posted any info about any events for today yet however we would recommend checking back now and again as they usually mention a few events you could get yourself too in the city. The New Helvetic Society social club was created for Swiss people in Britain and has a great number of regular cultural events to offer however please note that it is members only. You can also view the President’s address online so make sure you don’t miss out!
Let us know how you will be celebrating today! Why not send us a photo or tag us in one you take on social media!
