Each year on August 1st, Switzerland sparkles a little brighter. Swiss National Day marks the formation of the Swiss Confederation in 1291—and what began as a historic alliance between three mountain cantons has blossomed into a day of alphorns, fireworks, and federal pride. But for the discerning crowd, this isn’t just about patriotism—it’s about how you celebrate it. Think starlit terraces in the Alps, rooftop cocktails with twinkling city views, and buffets that tour the entire country in a single evening. Here’s where to fête in style.
Swiss National Day Dinner & Fireworks at The Alpina Gstaad
Gstaad does grandeur like no other, and The Alpina’s Swiss National Day soirée is a masterclass in Alpine elegance. The day begins with horse painting and carriage rides—ideal for little ones and those young at heart—before guests gather in the garden for a pre-dinner aperitif and a thrilling demonstration of Schwingen, traditional Swiss wrestling (yes, it’s a thing, and yes, it’s fierce). Chef Martin Göschel’s buffet unfolds like a love letter to Swiss terroir: think warm and cold delicacies, crafted with precision and pride. All this accompanied by the soul-stirring sounds of alphorn quartets, yodellers, and button accordionists. But the real crescendo? A 10:30 PM firework display lighting up the Saanenland sky—best viewed with a glass of bubbly from their immaculate garden terrace.
CHF 195 per person | CHF 80 per child
Beach Club Celebration at Hotel Hermitage Lucerne
If The Alpina is Alpine elegance, the Beach Club at Hotel Hermitage is lakeside cool. Lucerne’s summer playground invites you to sprawl on sun-drenched daybeds, clink flutes of Ruinart, and sway to Balearic DJ beats—all against a cinematic Lake Lucerne backdrop.
Want to elevate your evening from laid-back luxe to full-on fine dining? Slip into something chic and head to the lakeside terrace for a four-course menu steeped in Swissness. This is National Day with sparkle—equal parts style, sun, and serotonin.
Traditional Swiss Soirée & Show at Six Senses Crans-Montana
Swiss National Day at Six Senses Crans-Montana is more than a celebration—it’s a soulful immersion into Alpine tradition. The evening begins at 7:00 PM on the Ora Pool Deck with a refined aperitif and sweet treats for little guests, set to the timeless sounds of alphorn players and the swirling artistry of flag throwers. At 7:45 PM, a traditional buffet awaits at the Wild Cabin, featuring creamy Vacherin, sizzling raclette, pan-fried perch, golden rösti, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes—followed by an irresistible spread of pastries, Berliner doughnuts, and a live crêpe and ice cream station. The warm, chalet-style ambiance comes alive with Örgeli-Chracher, a lively folk trio spinning classic Swiss tunes. As night falls, return to the Ora Pool Deck for a 10:15 PM laser show—where shimmering lights dance across the sky in a poetic ode to unity, joy, and quiet grandeur. Alpine spirit, reimagined the Six Senses way.
CHF 165 per adult | CHF 85 per child (6–12) | Free for under 6
August 1st Rooftop Cocktails at Kampai, Four Seasons Geneva
Start the day on a high—literally—at Kampai, the rooftop gem crowning the Four Seasons Geneva. With skyline views over the Rhône and Jet d’Eau, this is the place to raise a glass (or a sake) to the Swiss Confederation. Indulge in Wagyu bao buns and Lobster Sushi Rolls, sip on signature cocktails or a perfectly chilled Chardonnay, and bask in the elegance of one of Geneva’s most stylish venues. This is where east meets west, modern meets heritage, and National Day turns effortlessly cosmopolitan. No national flag required—just your best rooftop attire.
Dinner of the 26 Cantons at Lausanne Palace
How do you taste an entire nation in one evening? At Lausanne Palace, the answer lies in their beloved “buffet of the 26 cantons,” hosted on the breezy terrace of Le Côté Jardin. Each canton is represented by a culinary specialty, from Ticino’s polenta to Appenzell’s mountain cheese—an edible tour de Suisse without leaving your table. With sweeping views over Lake Geneva and festive sounds, it’s an evening of gastronomic diplomacy you won’t soon forget.
CHF 130 per person | CHF 65 for children
Swiss National Day BBQ at Restaurant Buech, Zurich
Perched above Lake Zurich like a scene from a Swiss storybook, Restaurant Buech is known for its rustic charm and sophisticated soul. On August 1st, it hosts a BBQ that redefines the genre. Start with a sun-drenched Tavolata of seasonal appetizers before diving into grill-fired perfection: prime cuts, fresh-caught fish, and vegetarian treasures. The grand finale? Scoops of creamy homemade ice cream straight from their Schlattgut farm. It’s relaxed, refined, and deliciously Swiss. Pro tip: Arrive early for golden-hour views over the lake.
