If you’re looking for some fun inspiration on things to do for NYE in Switzerland, this post is for you! From fireworks to day trips and lovely dinners, let’s dive into the list:
Zurich: Music, Lights, and Midnight Fireworks
Date: January 1, 2026
Time: The festivities start at 14:00 on Dec 31st, Fireworks at 00:20-00:35 (Jan 1st)
Zurich welcomes the new year with music, lights, and church bells. At midnight, you can experience a grand fireworks display over Lake Zurich, creating a magical atmosphere to kick off the year. The program can be found here.
The best views are from Bürkliplatz, Quaibrücke, and Mythenquai. You can find the exact time here. Bars and clubs across the city offer themed parties to keep the night going.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the fireworks.
Dinner Cruises on Lake Zurich: Celebrate aboard a New Year’s Eve dinner cruise with a gourmet menu and an exclusive view of the fireworks.
NYE dinner: You can enjoy a spoiling NYE dinners in various restaurants including the Uto Kulm with fantastic view, The Dolder Grand, Baur au Lac Hotel, Widder, ORSINI and more.
Lausanne: Midnight Cathedral Burning Ceremony
Date: December 31, 2025
Time: Midnight
In Lausanne, a unique tradition unfolds at the stroke of midnight on December 31. Join locals and visitors alike in witnessing the burning cathedral ceremony, accompanied by a friendly atmosphere, champagne, and mulled wine. Other fun activities can be found here.
Lucerne: A Symphony of Fireworks on Lake Lucerne
Date: January 1, 2026
Fireworks Time: 20:15
Start the year with a bang in Lucerne as the night sky above Lake Lucerne comes alive with a mesmerizing fireworks display. Gather along the shores and witness a symphony of colors illuminating the serene waters.
Bern: Traditional Procession from Laupen Castle
Date: December 31, 2025
Time: 20:00
Experience a unique New Year’s Eve in Bern with a grand procession featuring participants adorned in intriguing and spooky outfits. The parade begins at the historic Laupen Castle, promising an evening filled with mystery and excitement. More inspiration of things to do in Bern can be found here.
Ascona: Piazza G. Motta Extravaganza
Date: January 1, 2026
Time: 18:30
Ascona invites you to Piazza G. Motta for a charming New Year’s Day fireworks display at 18:30. The lively square provides the perfect backdrop for an early evening celebration, surrounded by the warmth of community and the brilliance of pyrotechnics.
Geneva
New Year’s Eve party on quay Gustave-Ador from 20:00-03:00 with performances, food trucks and bars.
Interlaken: Fireworks on the Höhematte
Date: January 1, 2026
Time: Fireworks at 19:45
For a breathtaking start to the year, head to Interlaken and witness the fireworks display over the Höhematte. There are also fun festivities during the day like a folkloric parade and more.
Other locations
Appenzell: Silvesterkläuse Celebrations- A unique cultural tradition where masked performers parade through the streets.
Veysonnaz: torchlight descent for the NYE from 17:30 – 19:30
Schwarzsee: fireworks over the lake.
Crans-Montana: New Year celebrations with DJs, drinks and snack stands.
Brunnen: New Year’s Eve fireworks with cocktail bar in front of the Lakeside.
Savognin: Neujahrsfackelabfahrt (New Year’s Torchlight Descent), featuring a torchlit descent by skiers and snowboarders followed by glühwein or punch at the base station.
