1 August

Switzerland's National Day is on 1 August. It commemorates the Federal Charter of 1291. At that time Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden promised each other mutual help. This story is seen as the beginning of the Confederation. On 1 August there are speeches, fireworks and bonfires on the hills, and many houses are decorated with flags.

1 August is the only public holiday that the Confederation sets for the whole of Switzerland. This is written in the Federal Constitution. Since 1994 the day has been a day off work everywhere. The cantons regulate other public holidays such as Ascension Day, Good Friday or 1 May. That is why they are not the same in all cantons.

Do not confuse 1 August with the national days of other countries. France celebrates on 14 July, the USA on 4 July and Germany on 3 October. 1 May is Labour Day, and in some cantons it is a full or half day off. But it is not a Swiss National Day.

Memory aid: 1291 and 1 August: on the first day of August, Switzerland celebrates its first alliance.