Switzerland is not just mountains, postcard perfect landscapes, luxury watches and chocolates. Living in this stunning country brings you into contact with a highly rich and unique cultural tradition handed down through generations. Switzerland is a world where history and modernity are beautifully blended, with colorful festivals, ancient customs and much more. You will soon learn that the traditions of the Swiss country are as fascinating as its breathtaking scenery as well, whether you’re strolling through charming villages or participating in vibrant local events.
If you plan to visit this cultural paradise, these traditions need to be experienced with your own eyes first! These customs will give your trip a charm that you would never forget, whether you explore the Switzerland Tour Packages for a well-planned adventure or choose the Switzerland Holiday Packages for a more relaxed getaway. Continue reading to find some of the most unique and most exciting Swiss traditions that will leave you in awe!
Here are the 7 Unique Swiss Traditions That Will Fascinate You
1. The Alpabzug – The Cows’ Grand Parade
Swiss farmers celebrate Alpabzug (also known as Désalpe), every autumn, when they bring their cows down from the alpine meadows to the valleys. Colorful flower crowns are on the cows as well as big bells and the farmers wear traditional Swiss outfits. If you happen to be visiting Switzerland in September then you need to check out this lively event, which usually includes folk music and of course local markets.
2. Burning of the Böögg – Sechseläuten
Have you ever wondered how the Swiss forecast for the summer? In Zurich, the people celebrate Sechseläuten every April, where they burn a snowman like effigy called the Böögg. And the hotter and sunnier the summer will be, the faster the Böögg’s head explodes! It’s full of music, parades, a festive atmosphere, and this exciting tradition.
3. The Yodeling Festival – Echoes of the Alps
Switzerland is not just the home of the yodeling stereotype, it’s a real and embracing tradition! The Swiss Yodeling Festival takes place every three years and gathers together yodelers, alphorn players and folk musicians from all over the country. It’s this festival that you should attend if you desire the authentic sound of the Swiss Alps.
4. Chalandamarz – Welcome Spring with Cowbells
On March 1st in the Engadin region in Switzerland, Swiss children celebrate Chalandamarz by ringing cowbells and singing traditional songs in order to keep the winter spirits away and to welcome spring. This is a wonderful glimpse into Swiss folklore, and it is famously featured in the beloved Swiss children’s book Schellen-Ursli.
5. Swiss Wrestling – Schwingen in the Sawdust Ring
So it’s time to move over WWE, there is treatment to be had from Switzerland’s own form of wrestling. Schwingen is a traditional Swiss wrestling sport that dates back to hundreds of years. Competitors lay in a circular sawdust ring and wrestle in special belts to pin the shoulders of their opponent to the ground. It is one of the most exciting and unique sports in the country because the champion is often awarded a prize bull.
6. The Escalade Festival – A Historic Celebration in Geneva
Geneva celebrates L’Escalade every December, a festival marking the city’s victory in 1602 over an attack. Mainly locals dress up in period costumes, parade through the streets and break chocolate cauldrons of marzipan vegetables (a tasty tribute to the historic event). This is a great mixture of history and chocolate if you love the latter.
7. New Year’s Eve in a Unique Style – Silvesterklausen
A tradition that locals in the Appenzell region celebrate on New Year’s Eve is Silvesterkläuse. At the new year, many people dress in elaborate, handmade costumes, some beautiful and some eerie and sing at people’s doors, wishing them a good year. This is a hidden gem in Swiss culture, a very fascinating and slightly mysterious tradition.
Conclusion:
Difference between Switzerland: For the most part, this has outraged me, because Switzerland is not only about stunning landscapes and luxury experiences, rather, it’s a country whose traditions are celebrated in the most breathtaking ways. All these customs are a reflection of the rich heritage and deep rooted culture of the Swiss people and whether it’s the Alpabzug, the thrilling Sechseläuten or the enchanting Silvesterkläuse. These are unique traditions that you will experience and not only will your trip be more memorable, but you will also have a deeper understanding of Switzerland’s lively history and lifestyle.
With a plan for a trip there has never been a better time to get absorbed into these incredible cultural experiences. Our Switzerland Tour Packages give you an opportunity to observe these traditions on first hand this natural beauty of the country. Or if you’re looking for a relaxing yet culturally stimulating getaway, check out our Switzerland Holiday Packages where you will be spoiled with the offer of Switzerland’s charm. However, when you travel, you’ll have a wonderful journey through Switzerland of traditions and warmth and wonder!
