The Local Switzerland

Swiss National Day: Five things you should know about Switzerland's 'birthday'

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 18:47:21 +0200

August 1st is a memorable day for Switzerland, as it celebrates the agreement which made the country as we know it possible. Here is what you need to know about the historical day and the celebrations.

Swiss town cancels National Day fireworks because of bear

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 18:34:18 +0200

The Swiss mountain resort of Arosa has a new resident.

Hot weather causes forest fire fears in Valais

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 14:24:42 +0200

Authorities in the canton of Valais have issued a warning about having fireworks and bonfires on Swiss National Day, August 1st, after the hot weather sparked a number of brush fires.

Take care around fireworks, Swiss told

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 17:20:12 +0200

Fireworks cause 250 accidents a year in Switzerland – half of them on August 1st, Swiss National Day.

Heatwave threatens August 1st fireworks

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 17:08:26 +0200

While people all over Switzerland are enjoying a real summer for a change, the dry weather could put a damper on the country's national day festivities.

Death threats for young socialist's flag swap plan

Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:30:00 +0200

A young politician who called for people to renounce nationalism and militarism by not displaying the country’s distinctive flag on Swiss National Day, August 1st, has received death threats.

Basel dogs embark on National Day trip abroad

Tue, 29 Jul 2014 11:29:00 +0200

An animal protection group in Basel is organizing a holiday for dogs over the Swiss National Day long weekend in order to protect them from the trauma of fireworks.

Farms opt out of Swiss National Day brunch

Mon, 28 Jul 2014 13:49:00 +0200

The number of farms in Switzerland offering a traditional brunch as part of Swiss National Day celebrations has fallen by more than a third since the initiative began.

New rules put damper on national day fireworks

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 12:25:00 +0200

Celebrations on Swiss National Day on August 1st may be more muted than usual this year after the government ruled that anyone running a fireworks display must undergo a costly training course.

Politicians appeal for Swiss unity on National Day

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 13:02:00 +0200

Politicians celebrated the August 1 National Day with speeches urging the Swiss to unite in the face of expected economic hardships. The soaring value of the Swiss franc means there could be trouble ahead for many businesses.