Public Holidays in Switzerland 2025
Switzerland has a unique public holidays system where many observances are defined by each canton, reflecting its cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity. However, a few holidays are recognized nationally across all cantons, while many others are regional and vary by locality.
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Overview of Public Holidays in Switzerland
In Switzerland, public holidays are largely determined by canton (state) authorities, meaning not all holidays apply uniformly across the federation. Only a small number of holidays—such as New Year’s Day, Ascension Day, Swiss National Day, and Christmas Day—are observed nationwide. Other holidays, often religious or cultural, are specific to certain cantons or municipalities.
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 (Berchtoldstag) | January 2 | Thursday | Observed in many cantons (not national) |
| Epiphany | January 6 | Monday | Observed in selected cantons (SZ, TI, UR) |
| Republic Day | March 1 | Saturday | Canton of Neuchâtel only |
| St. Joseph’s Day | March 19 | Wednesday | Observed in several Catholic cantons |
| Näfels Procession (Näfelser Fahrt) | April 3 | Thursday | Canton of Glarus only |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | National in most cantons (except TI & VS) |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Observed in most cantons (exceptions: NE, SO, VS, ZG) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Only in certain cantons (BL, BS, JU, NE, SH, TG, TI, ZH) |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | National in all cantons |
| Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) | June 9 | Monday | Observed in many cantons (exceptions: NE, SO, VS, ZG) |
| Corpus Christi | June 19 | Thursday | Holiday in many Catholic cantons (approx. 13) |
| Independence of Jura (Jura Day) | June 23 | Monday | Only in the canton of Jura |
| St. Peter & St. Paul | June 29 | Sunday | Only in Ticino canton |
| National Day (Swiss National Day) | August 1 | Friday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Friday | Observed in many cantons (around 13) |
| Jeûne genevois | September 11 | Thursday | Only in Geneva canton |
| Day after the Federal Fast (Lundi du Jeûne) | September 22 | Monday | Only in Vaud canton |
| Bruder Klaus Festival | September 25 | Thursday | Only in Obwalden canton |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Observed in many cantons (not universal) |
| Immaculate Conception | December 8 | Monday | Observed in many cantons |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | National holiday (all cantons) |
| St. Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day) | December 26 | Friday | Observed in most cantons (not all) |
| Restoration Day (Geneva) | December 31 | Wednesday | Only in Geneva canton |
Note: The above list includes both national holidays and regional (cantonal) holidays. Not every holiday is observed everywhere—holiday observance depends on the canton or municipality.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Many of Switzerland’s holidays are tied to Christian traditions—Easter, Assumption, Christmas, etc. Meanwhile, national holidays like Swiss National Day emphasize federal identity across cantons. Local festivals such as Näfels Procession or Jeûne genevois reflect the heritage of individual cantons and local communities.
Public Observances and Closures
On national holidays, public offices, banks, and many businesses close across the Swiss Confederation. On cantonal holidays, closures depend on local jurisdiction. If you are in a specific canton, always check your local calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Switzerland have?
The number varies by canton—some cantons may have around 9–15 holidays per year. Only a few are observed nationally by all cantons.
Which holidays are observed everywhere in Switzerland?
Nationwide holidays include: New Year’s Day (January 1), Ascension Day (May 29), Swiss National Day (August 1), and Christmas Day (December 25).
Do cantonal holidays differ?
Yes. Many holidays like Berchtold’s Day, Epiphany, Corpus Christi, and local festivals vary by canton or municipality. They are not universal.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s public holiday system highlights its federal structure and cultural diversity. While certain holidays unite the nation, many others celebrate local traditions and religious heritage at the canton level. Always verify the holiday schedule for the specific canton you are in.
