New Year’s Eve in Switzerland, as elsewhere in the world, is synonymous with fireworks displays – from modest to extravagant ones.
A thing to know is that – depending on where in Switzerland you live – you may not see any municipal fireworks at all.
That’s because many communities forego this extravaganza, reflecting their environmental and animal welfare concerns.
For instance, fireworks are no longer part of New Year’s Eve celebrations in Lausanne, Basel, Bern, and St. Gallen. In central Switzerland, only Lucerne still puts on a fireworks display.
Geneva and Zurich, on the other hand, still maintain this tradition.
Zurich
The fireworks display in the city begins 20 minutes after midnight on the lakefront, in an event called Silvesterzauber.
Geneva
The Promenade du Lac offers stunning views of the fireworks over Lake Geneva, though you can see them from others nearby points in the city as well.
And by the way, on this day, the city and canton also celebrate an event that has shaped their history: the restoration of the Republic.
Following the defeats of Napoleon’s army, French soldiers withdrew from the city on the morning of December 30th, 1813.
Austrian troops arrived in Geneva that afternoon, announcing the restoration of the old order on December 31st.
A proclamation of independence was prepared, a provisional government was formed, and Geneva regained its status as an independent republic.
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Lucerne
The lakefront promenade (Seeufer promenade) provides the best view of the fireworks display over Lake Lucerne, but you can see it from pretty much everywhere in the Old Town.
Additionally, many other towns have fireworks of their own, so check your community’s website to find out whether, and where, they are taking place.
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Can you set off fireworks in your own garden?
Not surprisingly, given Switzerland’s penchant for rules and safety, this activity is also subject to regulations – even though many people don’t adhere to them strictly – if t all.
These rules were created by the Federal Office of Police (FedPol) and the Federal Office of Customs and Border Security (BAZG):
- Fireworks can only be set off as far away from buildings, farming fields and woodland as possible – ideally, at least 200 metres away
- By the same token, never light fireworks indoors
- Fireworks should only be set off in a safe distance from the crowds
- Do not try to re-light used fireworks
- Always keep water on hand in case a firework malfunctions
In addition to these general regulations, also be sure to check the rules for your local area.before you decide to set off your private fireworks
This article provides more information about the general rules, as well as those in some communities:
READ ALSO: Can I set off fireworks in Switzerland on New Year’s Eve?
