Zurich

How to Celebrate an Unforgettable August 1st In & Around Zurich (My 2025 Guide)

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This year, we’re getting a special treat: August 1st falls on a Friday, giving us a glorious long weekend to celebrate!

As a local who is completely obsessed with making the most of every holiday, I get asked a lot by friends: “What should we actually do for Swiss National Day?” So, I’ve put together my personal guide—not just a list of events, but my curated recommendations for an experience you’ll genuinely love.

Let’s dive in.

First, Let’s Talk About Zurich…

I have to be honest with you. If you’re hoping for a massive, city-sponsored fireworks display over the lake, you already know the city has stopped doing the big show for a few years now.

But don’t worry! What we do instead is, in my opinion, even better. My favorite way to celebrate in the city is to embrace the cozy, neighborhood vibe.

  • My Go-To Zurich Plan: Grab your friends, pack a grill-it-yourself bag from the Coop or Migros, and head to a public grilling spot (Grillplatz) on the lake or up on the Waidberg for a fantastic view. It’s relaxed, social, and in my opinion, the most authentic way to celebrate in the city.

Btw, I know that most of the links I put are in German (or French/ Italian)- there aren’t always links in English you can easily translate them in your browser if needed.

For a Truly Swiss Experience: Brunch on a Farm

If you ask me for the single most charming way to start August 1st, this is it. The “Brunch auf dem Bauernhof” (Brunch on the Farm) is an absolute must-do at least once, even if you’ve lived here your whole life.

Imagine starting your day in the fresh country air, with the sound of cowbells, eating fresh Zopf, local cheeses straight from the source. I went to one near Zug a few years ago and the memory of that simple, delicious meal has stayed with me ever since.

My Crucial Tip: This is incredibly popular! You must book your spot in advance. Farms open for bookings in the spring and fill up fast.

For the “Wow” Factor: Where to See Real Fireworks

If your heart is set on a sky full of spectacular fireworks, you just need to take a little day trip. These are my two absolute favorite options, each with a completely different vibe.

1. The Big Show: The Rhine Falls (on July 31st!)

This is probably one of the most spectacular fireworks display in all of Switzerland. The mighty Rhine Falls are lit up in breathtaking colors, creating a truly unforgettable show.

  • My Insider Tip: The main event happens on the evening of July 31st, not August 1st! I recommend taking an early evening train from Zurich to “Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall” to grab a good viewing spot before the crowds descend.
  • Check the Details: You can find the official schedule and information on the Rheinfall website.

2. The Lakeside Magic: Brunnen on Lake Lucerne

For a classic lakeside celebration, I absolutely love the atmosphere in Brunnen. The fireworks display over the water, with the mountains in the background, is pure magic. It’s part of the “Seenachtsfest” and feels like a perfect summer dream.

  • My Tip: Make a full day of it. Take a train to Brunnen, spend the afternoon swimming in the lake, have an early dinner, and then find a spot for the show.
  • Keep Updated: You can usually find information on the Brunnen Tourism website.

For a Truly Unique Experience: Celebrate with a Special Brunch

If you want to elevate your August 1st beyond the classic grill party, a special brunch with a view is the way to go. These are my top picks for a truly memorable meal.

  • On the Lake: The ZSG Brunch Cruise Imagine gliding across Lake Zurich, coffee in hand, with a massive buffet of breads, cheeses, and hot dishes. The ZSG offers a special brunch cruise right from Bürkliplatz.
    • My Tip: Book this one the moment you see tickets go on sale; the convenience makes it sell out fast. Find details on the ZSG website.
  • On a Vintage Train: The Appenzeller Bahnen Brunch Ride For something straight out of a storybook, I love this idea. The Appenzeller Bahnen runs a special “Brunchfahrt” on a nostalgic train through the rolling green hills of Appenzell. It’s charming, unique, and a beautiful way to see another part of Switzerland.
  • At the Top of a Mountain: Schneehüenerstock Brunch If the mountains are calling, answer with a brunch at 2,600 meters! Near Andermatt, the restaurant on Schneehüenerstock hosts a 1st of August brunch with panoramic views and live folk music. It’s an epic way to feel on top of the world while you celebrate.

My blog post for other locations around Switzerland is here– this will give you a bigger picture of what there is around the country.

So, what are my plans for the long weekend? I’m leaning towards a relaxing farm brunch to start the day, followed by a chilled-out grill with friends by the lake.

I would love to know what you’re thinking! What are your plans for August 1st? Are there any special traditions that you love? Let me know in the comments below!

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