In Switzerland, Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th and it is a common public holiday throughout the country. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ as per Christian belief. It is a season of joy and celebration accompanied by loved ones. Swiss people normally prepare for Christmas Day with advent calendars, lighting candles each Sunday leading up to the holiday. Some cantons in Switzerland begin their celebration on December 24th, known as 'Heiliger Abend' (Holy Evening), where families gather for a festive meal and exchange presents.
There are numerous customs and traditions associated with Christmas in Switzerland. These traditions often vary depending on the region. One symbolic custom is the Swiss version of Santa Claus, Samichlaus, who visits children in early December. Accompanied by Schmutzli, a helper dressed in brown monk’s clothing, Samichlaus distributes nuts, mandarins, and gingerbread to nice children, whereas naughty children worry about being carried away in Schmutzli’s sack. Another tradition is the 'Cantons of Appenzell' where they celebrate with a special form of carol singing. Professional singers roam the street with huge lanterns with painted glass panes, singing and shaping Christmas spirit.
When it comes to Christmas cuisine, the Swiss have distinct customary dishes. Christmas cookies, or 'Weihnachtsguetzli', are a popular treat made in various shapes and flavours, usually baked with family members, adding to the warm Christmas spirit. A traditional Christmas meal may include a stuffed turkey or ham, potatoes, and a variety of local Swiss dishes. A special bread called 'Dreikönigskuchen', or Three King’s bread, is typically enjoyed on the day after Christmas Day. As much as Christmas is a time of family gatherings and feasting in Switzerland, it's also a cherished period of reflection, love, and light; these sentiments echo in their traditions, food, and festivities.