Activities for 1st of August in Switzerland

Switzerland's national holiday the 1st of August is approaching soon and the weather forecast couldn't be better! This year I'll probably be celebrating on the beautiful shores of Lake Neuchatel and watching the fireworks from Estavayer-le-lac, enjoying the Estivale festival and some barbecued meat and cold beer.

Where to go and what to do on 1st of August in Switzerland

Almost every larger town or village in Switzerland organizes some event on 1st of August - usually a traditional 1st of August brunch, a concert (mostly with traditional Swiss music) and of course the obligatory firework. I investigated and found other (possibly more interesting and exciting ways) to spend 1st of August.

Zurich region:

spend 1st of August on a boat on Lake Zurich either enjoying a good brunch or an evening meal
enjoy a BBQ or a fine dinner at the Uto Kulm restaurant on Üetliberg
swim in Lake Zurich and have a cool beer afterwards

Basel region:

visit the 1st of August celebrations on the shores of the Rhine river (food booths, concerts, etc.)
go see the Swiss national sport Schwingen in Kleinbasel
swim in the Rhine river through the city

Berne region:

celebrate on the Gurten mountain (30 minute firework in the evening, events for children, bbq, and more)
swim in the Aare river and organize an outdoor bbq with friends

Lausanne region:

visit the Estivale in Estavayer-le-lac
swim in one of the lakes of the region: Lac de Neuchatel, Lac Leman or Lac de Morat

Let me know of other events in your region or great activities for 1st of August!

PS: For those who like to use the opportunity of a national holiday to refreshen their baking skills - try yourself at baking traditional Swiss 1st of August buns.

© 2013 IRENE WYRSCH "A HUMOROUS GUIDE TO SWITZERLAND" ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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