Christmas in Switzerland, Everything You Could Hope for and More!
If you are looking to experience the quintessential white Christmas, complete with Christmas lights, carolers, Christmas markets, hot seasonal drinks, and of course snow with incredible scenery, it doesn’t get more festive and quintessential than Christmas in Switzerland. The Swiss have been celebrating Christmas for centuries, and are steeped in Christmas traditions. There is always something for everyone in the whole family to enjoy! We’ll share some of the best places to spend Christmas in Switzerland.
Christmas in the Famous Swiss Alps
The Alps are a fantastic back drop for a snowy white Christmas, especially for you ski bunnies out there. There are a number of Swiss alpine resorts to choose from that are pretty much a sure win, due to their elevation. These resorts include Zermatt, Davos/Klosters, and St. Moritz which have great skiing, as well as activities the whole family can enjoy, such as horse-drawn sleighs ride and many resorts have Christmas markets for gifts and souvenirs. Zermatt, of course, has one of the most famous Christmas markets Switzerland, and there is also the beautiful St. Peter’s Church where some 800 attendees join for their annual Christmas service. Gstaad, is specially know for a personal visit from Santa Claus, where he walks the streets, greeting children as he makes his way from the oldest hotel in town, to the church. Grindelwald is a great little Christmas village where you can do fun things like snow-shoeing, and sledging.
Christmas in the cities
Resort towns and skiing isn’t for everybody. But don’t worry, major cities offer wonderful Christmas markets and other things that will make for a memorable Christmas. Cities like Basel, Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Lucerne have some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer, and will give you a good dose of the local Christmas spirit. Residents gather to buy their freshly cut Christmas tree, or get together with family or friends to enjoy a cup of mulled wine, some tasty grilled sausages, and other seasonal goodies.Basel’s Christmas market
Source: Basel.com[/caption] The largest Christmas market in Switzerland is in Basel, in the center of the city’s Old Town, and features over 180 wooden huts selling gifts, souvenirs and savory treats. Be sure to check out Johann Wanner’s famous Christmas tree, present each year and beautifully decorated. You can even buy Wanner ornaments nearby at the Johann Wanner Christmas House.Zurich’s Christmas market
Source: Zurich.com[/caption] In Zurich, there is also an amazing Christmas tree well worth taking the time to see at the Zurich Christmas market, held at the train station. Each year they have a 50 ft. tree that’s decorated with 7,000 sparkling Swarovski crystals. Not to be missed!
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
In Switzerland, the festive season reaches its peak on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, celebrated with deep-rooted traditions and joyful family gatherings. Christmas Eve, known locally as Heiligabend, is the primary celebration where families unite to share a special meal and exchange gifts. The evening often begins with attending Midnight Mass, a meaningful spiritual event that enhances the holiday atmosphere. Following the service, families sit down to a lavish dinner featuring Swiss delights such as fondue, raclette, and various meats and pastries. The night is filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of being with loved ones.
Christmas Day, or Weihnachten, is celebrated in a more laid-back manner, but it is just as festive. It’s a day for visiting extended family, enjoying another hearty meal, and taking in the beautiful winter landscapes of Switzerland. Many Swiss people take advantage of the snowy weather to partake in outdoor activities like skiing, sledding, or simply enjoying a tranquil walk in the snow-covered countryside.
Swiss Sweets
A Swiss Christmas wouldn't be complete without indulging in a variety of traditional Swiss sweets. Baking Christmas cookies, known as Guetzli, is a cherished tradition in many households. These cookies come in a variety of shapes and flavors, from classic butter cookies to spiced Lebkuchen, which is similar to gingerbread. Swiss chocolates, renowned globally, are also an essential part of the holiday season. Families often exchange beautifully wrapped boxes of chocolates, adding a sweet touch to their festive celebrations.