Bundesfeiertag: Switzerland’s National Day
Bundesfeiertag, Switzerland’s National Day, falls on 1 August. It commemorates the Federal Charter of 1291 and is marked by ceremonies, speeches, bonfires and fireworks across the country.[1][2]
A nationwide holiday under Swiss law
The Federal Constitution names 1 August as the National Day. It is Switzerland’s only federal public holiday and is treated like a Sunday under employment law. In general, employees may not be required to work, though exceptions for Sunday work apply. Employees paid by the hour are entitled by law to pay for the holiday.[1]
There is no general right to take a replacement day when 1 August falls on a day that would already be off. The date stays fixed at 1 August; the law does not move the holiday to a nearby weekday.[1]
The charter and the Rütli story
The Federal Charter, dated to early August 1291, records a mutual assistance pact among the communities of Uri, Schwyz and Nidwalden. Switzerland began treating the charter as a founding document in the late 19th century: the Federal Council organised a national jubilee in 1891 and made 1 August the National Day in 1899.[2]
The familiar account of an oath sworn on the Rütli meadow is a legend connected to the charter, rather than something the document itself records. Today, the Rütli is the setting for a well-known National Day ceremony, and the President of the Confederation addresses the nation.[1][2]
Local ceremonies, food and evening celebrations
Celebrations vary by community. They can include political speeches, the national anthem, bell-ringing, traditional costumes, yodelling, alphorns and flag-throwing. In some places, children parade with lanterns showing the Swiss cross and their canton’s flag; larger cities and holiday resorts may hold fireworks, while bonfires are lit in Alpine regions.[1][3]
A farm brunch has become a National Day tradition. Switzerland Tourism describes these as usually taking place on farms, often with advance registration, and serving plaited bread, jam, meat, cheese and other specialities. Visitors may also attend local celebrations or take an excursion.[4]
Badges and practical planning
Pro Patria added the 1 August badge to its annual collection in 1923. Proceeds have supported changing charitable and cultural purposes over time; today the foundation says it promotes Swiss cultural heritage and traditions.[5]
Because 1 August is treated like a Sunday for employment law, shop opening is subject to Sunday rules. Cantonal laws govern when shops may open, and SECO lists exceptions that include certain shops serving travellers at major stations and airports, as well as some kiosks, bakeries and other businesses. Check a shop’s local opening information before setting out.[1][6]
Bundesfeiertag: frequently asked questions
When is Bundesfeiertag?
Is 1 August a day off throughout Switzerland?
It is the country’s only federal public holiday and is treated like a Sunday under employment law. Work is generally prohibited, subject to exceptions; hourly paid employees are legally entitled to holiday pay.[1]
Is there a substitute day if 1 August falls on a weekend?
There is no general right to take a replacement holiday when 1 August falls on a day that would already be off. The holiday remains on 1 August.[1]
Are shops open on 1 August?
Shop opening follows Sunday rules, and cantonal laws determine when shops may open. Some businesses serving travellers and other specified shops are exceptions, so check locally.[6]
Sources and references
Sources used for Bundesfeiertag in Switzerland:
- Freizeit und Feiertage- State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)
- The Federal Charter of 1291- The Federal Council of Switzerland
- Where do celebrations take place on Swiss national day (1 August)?- Switzerland Tourism
- Swiss National Day- Switzerland Tourism
- 1. August-Abzeichen- Swiss Foundation Pro Patria
- FAQ Ladenöffnung am Sonntag- State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)