Public holidays in Switzerland: why they vary by canton
Only one federal holiday, the rest decided by the cantons: why public holidays differ from one canton to another in Switzerland.
In Switzerland, there are almost no “national” public holidays. Federalism plays a role here too: apart from the national day, the cantons decide their own holidays. As a result, a day off in Geneva can be a working day in Zurich.
The only truly common day
1 August, the national day, is the only holiday recognised across the whole country (treated as a Sunday under federal law). It commemorates the founding pact of 1291. Everything else — New Year, Good Friday, Ascension, Christmas… — depends on cantonal rules, plus festivals specific to certain regions or denominations.
A patchwork map
Some festivals are mainly Catholic (Corpus Christi, Assumption, All Saints) and are holidays in Catholic-tradition cantons but not elsewhere. Others, like the Geneva or Federal fast day, are region-specific. As an employer or an employee, you must therefore always check the canton — and sometimes the municipality.
Frequently asked questions
What is Switzerland's only national holiday?
1 August, the national day, the only day recognised across the country. All other public holidays are decided by the cantons.
Why do public holidays vary by canton?
Because of federalism: apart from 1 August, each canton sets its own holidays, often linked to its religious tradition.
Related reading
- The 26 Swiss cantons: the full list with capitals
The list of the 26 Swiss cantons with their abbreviation and capital, and what makes the canton the real building block of federalism.
- The Swiss political system: Federal Council, Parliament, cantons
A seven-member government, a two-chamber Parliament, 26 cantons and direct democracy: how the Swiss political system really works.