Swiss holidays and traditions: New Year, Bern Carnival, St. Martin's Day, Christmas
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Switzerland is known for its traditional holidays that reflect the country's rich history and culture. They are celebrated in different regions, but many of them are national and popular throughout the country. In this article, we will look at some of the most well-known holidays and traditions in Switzerland.
New Year's Eve in Switzerland is a big celebration. Fireworks, concerts, and bonfires are held on the streets of cities throughout the country. Many people traditionally celebrate New Year's with family and friends in restaurants and homes. In some regions, the celebration continues until January 6, which is Three Kings' Day.
The Bernese Carnival is one of the most famous holidays in Switzerland. It takes place in the capital city of Bern in February and lasts for four days. During the carnival, the streets of the city are filled with colorful costumes, music, and dancing. One of the main symbols of the carnival is the "running bear," which appears on the streets at various times of the day.
Saint Martin's Day is a holiday that is celebrated in November. On this day, parades are held in cities and villages throughout Switzerland, with children carrying lanterns and adults singing songs. The holiday is usually accompanied by sweet goose-shaped buns, which symbolize the goose on which St. Martin rode when he distributed food to the poor.
Christmas is one of the most popular holidays in Switzerland. It is celebrated in December and is associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. On Christmas, the streets of cities are decorated with lights and garlands, and homes are decorated with Christmas trees and various decorative elements. On this day, many families gather together to celebrate the holiday. Traditionally, dishes made from beef, pork, or turkey are served, as well as apple and pear jam. In some regions, Christmas markets are held on this day, where you can buy gifts, sweets, and other souvenirs.
In addition to national holidays, Switzerland has regional traditions. For example, in the canton of Valais in the southwest of the country, the "Batzelers" festival is celebrated in December. On this day, locals dress up in traditional costumes and hold parades featuring music and dance. The traditional dish for this festival is "fish soup."
Also in the cantons of Valais and Fribourg, the "Estivale" festival is celebrated in the summer. On this day, city residents and guests dress up in bright national costumes, hold parades, and dance. The traditional dish for this festival is "tarte flambée," a pie with onions, cream, and bacon.
Moreover, Switzerland is known for its cuisine. Here you can try many different dishes, including national ones. For example, "fondue" is a dish of melted cheese in which pieces of bread are dipped. Another popular dish is "raclette," which is melted cheese served with potatoes and ham.
Switzerland is a country with a rich culture and traditions that are reflected in its festivals and cuisine. National and regional holidays, such as New Year's, the Bernese Carnival, St. Martin's Day, and Christmas, allow residents and visitors to learn about the country's history, culture, and traditions, as well as enjoy the unique atmosphere and variety of entertainment.
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