Public Holidays in Switzerland 2026 – National & Cantonal Holidays
Switzerland has a unique public holiday system in which many observances are determined at the cantonal level, reflecting the country’s strong federal structure and cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity. While a small number of holidays are observed nationwide, many others apply only within specific cantons or municipalities.
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Overview of Public Holidays in Switzerland
In Switzerland, public holidays are largely regulated by individual cantons rather than by a single national calendar. Only a few holidays—such as New Year’s Day, Ascension Day, Swiss National Day, and Christmas Day—are observed across all cantons. Other holidays, often religious or historical, vary significantly depending on local traditions and cantonal law.
List of Public Holidays in Switzerland (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Remarks / Where Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| Berchtold’s Day | January 2 | Friday | Observed in many cantons (not national) |
| Epiphany | January 6 | Tuesday | Selected cantons (SZ, TI, UR) |
| Republic Day | March 1 | Sunday | Canton of Neuchâtel only |
| St. Joseph’s Day | March 19 | Thursday | Several Catholic cantons |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Observed in most cantons (except TI & VS) |
| Easter Monday | April 6 | Monday | Most cantons (exceptions apply) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Observed in selected cantons |
| Ascension Day | May 14 | Thursday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) | May 25 | Monday | Observed in many cantons |
| Corpus Christi | June 4 | Thursday | Many Catholic cantons |
| Independence of Jura (Jura Day) | June 23 | Tuesday | Canton of Jura only |
| Swiss National Day | August 1 | Saturday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Saturday | Observed in many cantons |
| Jeûne genevois | September 10 | Thursday | Canton of Geneva only |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Sunday | Observed in several cantons |
| Immaculate Conception | December 8 | Tuesday | Observed in many cantons |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 | Saturday | Observed in most cantons |
Many Swiss residents use long weekends and regional holidays for travel within the country or nearby Europe. Popular destinations are listed in places to visit in Switzerland, while accommodation options can be planned using best hotels in Switzerland.
List of Public Holidays in Switzerland (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Where Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| Berchtold’s Day | January 2 | Thursday | Many cantons |
| Epiphany | January 6 | Monday | Selected cantons |
| Republic Day | March 1 | Saturday | Neuchâtel only |
| St. Joseph’s Day | March 19 | Wednesday | Catholic cantons |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Most cantons |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Most cantons |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | National holiday |
| Swiss National Day | August 1 | Friday | National holiday |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | National holiday |
| St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 | Friday | Most cantons |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Swiss public holidays reflect Christian traditions—especially Easter, Ascension, and Christmas—alongside civic milestones such as Swiss National Day. Cantonal holidays like Jeûne genevois or Republic Day highlight strong local identities and regional history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Switzerland have in 2026?
The number varies by canton, typically ranging from 9 to 15 holidays per year. Only a few are observed nationwide.
Which holidays are observed across all cantons?
Nationwide holidays include New Year’s Day, Ascension Day, Swiss National Day, and Christmas Day.
Do cantonal holidays differ significantly?
Yes. Many holidays depend entirely on the canton or municipality and may not apply elsewhere in Switzerland.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Switzerland for 2026 and 2025 highlight the country’s federal character and cultural diversity. While national holidays unite the confederation, cantonal observances preserve local traditions and regional identity. Always check the holiday calendar specific to your canton when planning work or travel.
