This year, the 1st of August falls on a Friday- how awesome is that?! Giving us a perfect long weekend to enjoy the wide variety of activities and summer vibes! I often get DMs asking for my take on things to do on the national day. So, I’ve put together my personal guide to the different “vibes” you can find, whether you’re craving a classic celebration, a quiet mountain escape, or a fireworks.
(P.S. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the Zurich & around specifically, you can find my dedicated local’s guide right here!)
So, if you’re deciding on your plans for the long weekend, here’s my rundown for 2025.
For a Traditional Experience: Brunch on a Farm
The “Brunch auf dem Bauernhof” (Brunch on the Farm) is probably the most traditional go-to, even if you lived here forever. Many farms open their doors on August 1st! Offering a spread of local cheeses, bread, pastries and of course, the iconic “1. Augustweggen” – that special bread roll with a Swiss flag. It’s a delicious way to celebrate while supporting local farmers.
There are several websites in which you can find the perfect brunch farm. Here is a useful one: Swiss Farmers.
For the “Ba Boom” Factor: Where to See Real Fireworks
If your heart is set on a fireworks show, The Rhine Falls (on July 31st!) is for you. The mighty Falls are lit up in breathtaking colors, creating a truly unforgettable show. The main event happens on the evening of July 31st, not August 1st!
Check the Details: You can find the official schedule and information on the Rheinfall website.
Other place where you can find fireworks are: Basel & Lausanne!
Lausanne hasn’t announced it yet in the official sites besides in the page of Ouchy but I’d keep an eye for that. For Basel you can find the info here.
The Vibe in the Lucerne Region:
For those living in or near Central Switzerland, the celebration around Lake Lucerne is all about that quintessential summer feeling with music and food. The town of Brunnen, in particular, hosts a two-day party.
My Personal Tip: The fireworks in Brunnen on the evening of August 1st are spectacular. I’d suggest making a full day of it: spend the afternoon swimming in the lake, enjoy the live music, and then find a good spot along the promenade for the show.
Additional places for your list:
Bern, Geneva, Lucerne, Vaud , Zermatt, Ascona, Canton Fribourg.
My Pick for a “Dolce Vita” Celebration: Ticino
If you want to celebrate with an Italian flair, the atmosphere in cities like Lugano and Ascona is warm, stylish, and full of life.
- The Vibe: “La dolce vita” meets Swiss tradition. Expect lively piazzas, amazing food and a more laid-back, joyful energy that feels very different from the German-speaking part.
My Pick for Alpine Charm: Interlaken & Zermatt
If your idea of August 1st involves breathtaking mountain scenery and deep-rooted traditions, then heading to the heart of the Alps is the way to go.
- Interlaken: The Traditional Epicenter. Interlaken goes all-in on tradition. Think folklore parades, alphorn players, and bonfires on the surrounding mountainsides. My favorite part is the grand fireworks display over the Höhematte meadow.
- Zermatt: The Iconic Backdrop. Celebrating at the foot of the Matterhorn is just an unbeatable experience. The village hosts a street party on July 31st, followed by a more official celebration on August 1st. The combination of traditional music and that iconic mountain peak is something truly special.
And for the Zurich Locals…
In Zurich, the celebration is less about one big official event and more about a relaxed, city-wide neighborhood party.
- The Vibe: A laid-back, “do-it-yourself” celebration. The city buzzes with the sound of private fireworks and the smell of grilling.
- My Personal Tip: The best way to celebrate like a local is to gather your friends, pack a grill bag, and head to a public Grillplatz, chill by the lake or up on the Waidberg for a great view of the private fireworks going off across the city.
I’m always curious to hear about other experiences! Share your favorite spots and tips in the comments below 🙂
