From solemn processions to festive markets, Swiss regions abound with special events during the long holiday weekend.
This year, Easter falls on Sunday April 5th, but celebrations begin already on Good Friday, April 3rd.
Processions to mourn the death of Christ are a part of the Easter traditions in some parts of Switzerland:
April 2nd and 3rd, Mendrisio (Ticino)
These Holy Week processions, which are inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, take place inside the Borgo di Mendrisio on Thursday and (Good) Friday evening.
The processions, which are both mysterious and solemn, have been part of traditions in the Ticino town since the 17th century.
April 3rd, Weeping women, Romont (Fribourg)
Twenty women dressed entirely in black leave the Collegiate Church of Romont at 3:00 p.m in complete silence and begin a small procession around the building. A hooded man carrying a cross and symbolising Christ is followed by a single woman embodying the Virgin, then the group of weeping women, priests, choirboys and finally the congregation follow.
Easter Market: April 3rd, Sion (Valais)
You will find over 160 stands and booths at the traditional Easter market in the Old Town (from Grand-Pont until la Place de la Planta) of the Valais capital.
You will be able to buy not just traditional Easter foods and trinkets, but also locally made specialties like pastries, jams, herbal teas, wines, and dairy products.
Zwänzgerle, April 6th, Zurich
Loosely translated as “20-cent coin throwing,” this Easter tradition is celebrated in the city of Zurich, on Rüdenplatz in the Old Town.
Crowds of adults and children focus their attention on eggs and small coins. Adults throw 20-cent coins at hard-boiled eggs held out by children with the aim of making them lodge in the shell. If they succeed, the thrower keeps the egg and the coin. An almost impossible task – much to the delight of the children, as every coin that falls to the ground instead of sticking in the egg belongs to them.
The Rabbit Mystery, April 6th to 19th, Charmey (Fribourg)
On a walk of about 3 km with no significant elevation gain, young and old alike set off in search of 10 stations scattered throughout the village. At each stop, there is a puzzle to solve, letters to collect, and a mystery word to discover.
And at the end of the trail, a small reward awaits the explorers who have solved the mystery word.
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Easter egg hunts
There will be plenty of those all over Switzerland, including:
April 3rd, Anzère (Valais)
The local tourist office is calling on all children to “put on your walking shoes, grab your basket and let yourself be guided to the magical forest,” to help the Easter bunny find its lost eggs.
April 5th, Interlaken (Bern)
Not just eggs, but entire egg nests will be hidden in various locations throughout the town.
With the Interlaken Guide, you can find out where they are located and have your own ‘eureka moment.’.
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April 5th, Schwyz (Schwyz)
During the popular and well-established Easter scavenger hunt, you will search not only for eggs.
There will be riddles to be solved, and other mysteries to discover as well.
April 6th, Andermatt (Uri)
It is more like a treasure hunt than just an ordinary hunt.
Hidden eggs can be found on a walk through this picturesque Alpine village.
READ MORE: How to celebrate Easter the Swiss way
