Bank Holidays in Switzerland in 2025 and 2026

Planning your schedule around Switzerland Bank holidays can be unique. Unlike many countries, there is no single list of bank holidays in Switzerland that applies everywhere. The number of Swiss holidays you get depends entirely on which canton you live in, with public holidays in Switzerland by canton varying significantly. This guide provides a clear list of Swiss national holidays and details the fascinating regional holidays in Switzerland.

Public Holidays in Switzerland: Holidays Calendar

Navigating the Swiss holiday calendar means understanding its federal structure. There are only a few official federal holidays, but a wider range of common local holidays are observed across various cantons. This mix of national holidays, Switzerland, and canton-specific observances creates a rich tapestry of Swiss traditions and customs. Whether you’re a resident managing holiday pay in Switzerland or a visitor planning a trip to Switzerland for the holidays, knowing this cantonal calendar is key to avoiding business closures during holidays.

Switzerland Bank Holidays for 2025

Here is a quick-reference table for the key Switzerland bank holidays in 2025. This includes federal holidays and the most widely observed common local holidays.

Switzerland Bank Holidays for 2026

Plan with these dates for the Swiss Bank Holidays 2026.

Switzerland Bank Holidays for 2027

While Switzerland Bank Holidays 2027 may seem far away, early planning is always a good idea. Here are the projected dates for your long-term calendar.

National Public Holidays in Switzerland (Observed in All Cantons)

True Swiss federal holidays that are statutory holidays across the entire country are surprisingly few. The main ones are

• New Year’s Day

• Ascension Day in Switzerland 2026 (and every year)

• Swiss National Day, August 1st

• Christmas Day

Good Friday and Easter Monday are also widely observed, but it’s essential to check the specific cantonal calendar for confirmation, as there can be rare exceptions.

Cantonal Holiday Calendar: Find Your Region

This is where the Swiss system gets interesting! Cantonal holidays are a deep dive into local history and culture. Here’s a snapshot of some unique regional observances:

• Zurich: Enjoy Zurich holidays, Sechseläuten in April, and the Knabenschiessen shooting festival in September.

• Geneva: Experience Geneva public holidays, Jeûne Genevois, and Restoration Day.

• Central Switzerland: Many cantons observe St. Joseph’s Day and St. Nicholas of Flüe in Obwalden.

• Ticino & Graubünden: Look for Epiphany and Saints Peter and Paul on the calendar.

• Appenzell Innerrhoden: This canton has its own Mauritius Day.

• Vaud: The Lundi du Jeûne is a key local holiday.

Understanding these canton-specific dates is crucial for accurate travel planning for Swiss holidays.

Beyond Bank Holidays: Swiss Observances and Festivals

Switzerland’s cultural heartbeat is also found in its many observances and festivals that aren’t official bank closures. These events are perfect for experiencing Swiss culture and traditions.

• Carnival in Switzerland 2025 (February/March): Basel’s Fasnacht is a world-famous celebration.

• Mother’s Day Switzerland 2025 & Father’s Day Switzerland 2025: Popular family occasions, though not public holidays.

• Swiss Federal Fast: A national day of observance, particularly marked in Protestant cantons.

• August 1 celebrations: The country comes alive with bonfires and Swiss National Day fireworks.

These Swiss cultural festivals and holidays offer a unique glimpse into local life beyond the official holiday schedule.

Also Read: German Bank Holidays

FAQs

Q1. How many public holidays are there in Switzerland?

There is no single number. It varies by canton, typically from 9 to 15 days per year, depending on regional holidays in Switzerland.

Q2. Is Berchtold’s Day a public holiday in Zurich/Geneva?

Yes, it is a holiday in Zurich. No, it is not a public holiday in Geneva. This highlights the importance of checking the public holidays in Switzerland by canton.

Q3. What is the most important holiday in Switzerland?

Swiss National Day on August 1st is the most important patriotic holiday. It commemorates the founding of the Swiss Confederation and is the only federal holiday.

Q4. Do shops close on public holidays in Switzerland?

Yes, generally. Store closures are common on official public holidays, including Sundays. It’s always best to check local timings for business closures and holidays.

Navigating Switzerland bank holidays is an adventure in itself, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural fabric. From the universally celebrated Swiss National Day to local gems like the Näfels Ride in Glarus, each holiday tells a story. We hope this guide from Calendar Times UK helps you plan your year effectively, whether you’re scheduling work, planning a vacation, or simply looking forward to the next long weekend Switzerland has to offer.

For more planning resources, you can also check our guides on England Bank Holidays and Netherlands Bank Holidays.