November in Zurich is when the city slowly turn into a Christmas fairytale. There are a bunch of fun things to do, so let me shed some light on all the events you should know about to help you organize your month.
Some of my highlights are the Illuminarium, the traditional Räbeliechtli-Umzüge and the chocolate tram! So let’s dive right in:
1st of November
Street Food Park: For the food lovers, the main station (HB) hosts the final days of the Street Food Park’s “Halloween Week,” serving food from all over the world until November 2nd.
Zurich: Expovina wine ships. The floating wine paradise on the Lake Zurich fleet at Bürkliplatz is a perfect event for wine lovers. Taking place from the 30.10-13.11.
The Honold Schoggi Tram: This is a truly special one. The iconic, old-timer tram is run by Confiserie Honold and circles the city while serving you hot chocolate and sweet pastries. It’s a perfect 30-minute treat. Dates: October 31st to November 16th. Tickets sell out quite fast, so you need to book them in advance online!
Auto Zürich: The largest car show in German-speaking Switzerland is also in its final days at the Messe Zürich, closing on November 2nd.
6th of November
The Illuminarium: opens its doors to the inner courtyard of the National Museum and invites you to enjoy Christmas treats, fondue and cocktails in outdoor and indoor bars. When: 6.11-30.12.
Uetliberg: Winter Magic on the Uetliberg in Zurich- Have you been already on Zurich’ home mountain? If not, and to be honest even if you did- this is the ultimate winter magic with holiday spirit, Snow, delicious food and fondue. Dates: November 6th- January 31st.
8th of November
Richterswil: Drop everything, cause this event is THE thing. A Turnip Lantern Parade with around 30 tons of turnips that transform into artistically carved lanterns, which are presented during a spectacular procession through the village. It’s huge, it’s stunning and it’s not to be missed!! Feel free to check the reel I made about it last year.
Rapperswil SG Cheese Festival: This might not come as a surprise but I’m a huge cheese fan. And undoubtedly, a Cheese Festival is perfect experience for cheese lovers out there. Offering Plenty of different cheeses from the region and food stands directly on the shore of the beautiful lake.
20th of November
Christmas Markets: When the entire entire magical scene kick starts with different Christmas markets, The Singing Tree, The little magical Märlitram for kids, The Lucy lights and more. Most Christmas scenes in Zurich start on November 20th all the way till December 23rd. You can find all the info about the different events in the linked website.
30th of November
Zurich: The annual Chlauseinzug (Santa Claus procession) takes place on November 30th at 17:00 on the Bahnhofstrasse.
Fun ways to enjoy a Cozy Fondue
The VBZ Fondue Tram: Not to be confused with the Schoggi Tram, this is the full dinner experience. You ride through Zurich in a cosy, classic tram while enjoying a proper cheese fondue. It’s a unique way to see the city lights.
ZSG Fondue Boat: Why eat on land? The ZSG offers a “Chäs-Fondue-Schiff” (Cheese Fondue Boat) that sails on Lake Zurich. It’s a fantastic experience, enjoying a fondue with the sparkling city lights reflecting on the water.
Pop-up Chalets & Gardens
Widder Wonder Garden: The courtyard of the Widder Hotel transforms into a magical garden with private, antique dining gondolas.
Gondel Gärtli: Located at the Restaurant Rigiblick, this spot offers a fantastic view over the city from its cozy gondolas.
Cheese am See: The “fondue igloo” village on the terrace of the Kongresshaus offers a stunning view over the lake.
Frau Gerolds Garten: The popular summer garden in Zürich West transforms into a magical “Winterstube.” It’s incredibly cosy and perfect for a fondue night.
Chalet Züriberg: High up on the Züriberg with a view, this pop-up chalet is already open for the season. It’s great for getting out of the city center.
Let me know if there is anything else you’d like me to include!
