Are you dreaming of visiting a ski resort in Switzerland? In this case, December is ideal for a long-awaited ski holiday. The average temperature in December in the resorts of the Alps is a classic comfortable winter. During the day, it is set at -6-1C, but at night it gets colder to -7-12C.
In Swiss cities and in lake resorts, you can enjoy warmer weather compared to ski areas. During the day the temperature is + 4C, but at night there are frosts down to -3-5C. Therefore, sweaters and windproof jackets are a must. In addition, the humid wind at zero temperature can penetrate to the bone!
Holidays and festivals in Switzerland in December
In December, Switzerland pleases with many holidays. It will be interesting for tourists to visit the celebrations taking place on December 6, because it is on this date that St. Nicholas Day falls, marking the beginning of preparations for Christmas and New Year, involving the exchange of sweet gifts. On the night of December 5-6, solemn processions are held in Switzerland. Just imagine: carts and whips, large candlesticks in the Gothic style, people in white and black clothes, symbolizing the positive and dark sides of life … In addition, the holidays are accompanied by the wonderful ringing of numerous bells! You must see this wonderful fairy tale in reality!
The Eskalad Festival is a historic celebration that takes place annually in Geneva for three days, namely from Friday to Sunday. The holiday falls on the next weekend after December 11th. The Escalade Festival is dedicated to the victory of Geneva over the army of the Duke of Savoy and the independence of the city. The Escalade is a costumed medieval action in which all the locals take part. For three days, people in ancient costumes with drums and flutes walk around Geneva. Warriors arrange shooting using cannons and muskets. The culmination is a costumed horse procession, in which guardsmen, dressed in medieval costumes and carrying torches, take part. Then, in the old square, pipers and drummers perform a song to cheerful music. Finally, a big bonfire is organized.
Christmas markets in Switzerland
When planning a vacation in Switzerland in December, you should visit local fairs.
- Zurich hosts the Christmas market, which is the largest indoor fair in Europe. 160 stalls with souvenirs, delicacies and sweets are located under the roof of the railway station. A Christmas tree is set up on the main square, decorated with Swarovski crystals. Tourists are delighted with bright fireworks, an unusual light show, and a Christmas circus.
- You need to spend half a day to visit the Basel Christmas market, or even better - the whole day. Just imagine: 180 trade tents selling handicrafts, Christmas pastries. Children are offered to ride a train under the supervision of special educators or enjoy active games in a warm room. Basel's Christmas Market is the ultimate family event!
- In Bern, the capital of Switzerland, it is customary to hold two Christmas markets at once. Each kiosk house is uniquely decorated, so you can enjoy an unusual atmosphere. The bazaar on Munsterplatz specializes in the sale of glass products, the skills of the glass blowers will truly delight you!
Switzerland is the best country for New Year and Christmas holidays!
