On August 1, 2024, Switzerland marked 733 years since the founding of the Swiss Confederation. The day saw celebrations across the country and in Swiss communities worldwide, blending time-honored traditions with modern reflections on national identity.
The historic Rütli meadow in Canton Uri hosted a key gathering, drawing hundreds to the site where the Swiss alliance began in 1291. Anders Stokholm, leading the Swiss Society for the Common Good, spoke about unity in diversity. He stressed that Switzerland’s varied cultures and regions are its backbone, calling for mutual understanding to shape the country’s future.
A key theme of this year’s celebrations was bridging the gap between urban and rural areas. Christine Bulliard-Marbach from the Swiss Association for Mountain Regions and Zurich Mayor Corine Mauch came together to discuss the common challenges faced by both cities and countryside, such as climate change and energy security. An outdoor exhibition showcased successful projects that linked urban and rural areas, like the revitalized market in Bellinzona.
Across Switzerland, people celebrated in their own ways. Hillside bonfires lit up the night, fireworks colored the sky, and kids walked with glowing lanterns. Bakeries made special flag-topped rolls, while buildings flew Swiss, cantonal, and local flags. At the Rhine Falls, a long-standing light show drew crowds, mixing natural wonder with national pride.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis gave speeches in several places, including Costa Rica, Paris, and the village of Guarda. He spoke in multiple languages (Romansh, Italian and German), highlighting how the country’s diversity is its strength. In Guarda, he said, “We only exist because of each other. We must care for this diversity.”
Swiss diplomats around the world shared what they miss about home – things like mountain air, efficient trains, and good cheese. It brought to mind the old idea of “Swiss homesickness,” once thought to be a real medical condition.
Swiss communities abroad joined in too. The Embassy of Switzerland in Washington, D.C. closed its doors for the day. New York City saw a big festival with hundreds of attendees enjoying Swiss food and music. In addition, Mayor Eric Adams took part in a flag-raising ceremony at Bowling Green, drawing parallels between Swiss values and those held dear by New Yorkers.
Happy Swiss National Day!
— City of New York (@nycgov) August 1, 2024
Today, we raised the Swiss flag at Bowling Green to honor their national day and celebrate the many things we share, including our commitment to democracy and unity. pic.twitter.com/cxgqLgHVTj
In Dublin, the Swiss Embassy hosted a gathering that brought together members of the Diplomatic Corps and the local Swiss community, strengthening international bonds.
Bern, the Swiss capital, witnessed a landmark event as the Swiss National Orchestra delivered its debut performance as part of the National Day program. This cultural milestone, complemented by a Diplomatic Reception, showcased Switzerland’s artistic excellence and diplomatic prowess on the world stage.
Philippine Ambassador Bernard Faustino Dy shared his experiences of the celebrations in Bern, offering a unique international perspective on Swiss National Day.
Swiss National Day Celebrations….Historic first time performance of the Swiss National Orchestra and Diplomatic Reception of the City of Bern…Happy Birthday Switzerland 🇨🇭 pic.twitter.com/atoWkMUYhA
— Bernard Faustino Dy (@bernardfdy) August 1, 2024
Major General Walt Lord (Ret.) of the U.S. Army provided historical context via social media, noting that while the holiday has been observed since 1891, it only gained official federal holiday status in 1994. He elaborated on the day’s connection to the Federal Charter of 1291, which saw the cantons of Schwyz, Uri, and Unterwald forge their historic alliance.
Today is #Swiss National Day. Although the founding of the Swiss Confederacy was first celebrated on August 1st in 1891 and annually since 1899, it has only been an official holiday since 1994.
— Major General Walt Lord, U.S. Army (Retired) (@MGWaltLord) August 1, 2024
The date chosen for this holiday is inspired by that of the Federal Charter of 1291,… pic.twitter.com/AgnlFncleL
From picturesque Alpine meadows to bustling global metropolises, Swiss National Day 2024 united Swiss citizens and friends of Switzerland in a collective acknowledgment of democracy, diversity, and shared heritage.
