Despite the relatively small size of its territory, Switzerland is ready to boast of a huge number of traditions and customs, which even countries that occupy much more space on the globe will envy. Some Swiss traditions are familiar only to residents of individual cantons, others are loved throughout the country, and tourists invariably love holidays, chocolate and cheese tastings, without which it is difficult to imagine this Alpine confederation.
Festive bouquet
There are plenty of holidays and memorable dates in the country. Perhaps even a native resident will not be able to list everything, but the most massive ones attract many tourists to the country:
- New Year's Eve is traditionally celebrated in Switzerland noisily and cheerfully with fireworks and champagne. It is one of the few countries in Europe where January 2 can be declared a non-working day in some cantons.
- In February, schools announce a two-week vacation, when all residents of the country rush to the ski slopes and mountain slopes. February is generally rich in holidays - at the end of winter, a wave of carnivals sweeps across the country on the eve of the beginning of Lent.
- The Zexilyute holiday comes in the spring on the Monday following the equinox, when in the afternoon the dignified Swiss leave their jobs and indulge in unrestrained fun. Zeksilyute symbolizes renewal in nature and in the souls of people.
- Village harvest festivals at the end of summer are another old tradition in Switzerland. Its modern essence boils down to a feast with fried sausages and lots of grape wine.
- It is customary for the whole family to gather at Christmas and have a modest supper by the light of wax candles. Noisy celebrations these days are not satisfied, leaving yourself the opportunity to have fun during the New Year celebrations.
About sports and music
Swiss traditions are also special musical instruments with the help of which national melodies are transmitted from generation to generation. Chief among others is the alpine horn alphorn, the history of the appearance of which in the music arena is lost in the mists of time. Traditions prescribe to make alphorn only from fir and today numerous tourists willingly buy it as a national souvenir.
Hornussen can be safely attributed to the national sports, in addition to the very popular alpine skiing. The puck for playing it resembles a hockey field, the field is narrow and elongated, and special "rackets" act as equipment, more like spades.
