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Das Bild zeigt das Bundeshaus in Bern, Schweiz, während der . Augustfeier. Vor dem Gebäude sind zahlreiche Menschen versammelt, die das sonnige Wetter und die festliche Atmosphäre genießen. Über dem Eingang des Bundeshauses sind die Flaggen verschiedener Schweizer Kantone zu sehen. Im Vordergrund sind weiße Pavillons und eine Kletterwand zu erkennen. Die Architektur des Bundeshauses ist imposant, mit einer großen Kuppel und lateinischer Inschrift "Curia Confoederationis Helveticae". Die Szene wirkt lebhaft und einladend, typisch für eine öffentliche Feier wie den Schweizer Nationalfeiertag.

1 August celebration in Bern

It’s Switzerland’s birthday! The federal city is inviting residents and visitors to a big celebration on the Bundesplatz (Parliament Square). A varied programme for all ages promises a festive atmosphere to remember.

01August 2025
Past event
TOP-EVENT

When 1 August comes around, the whole country will be celebrating, and Bern is no exception. On this day, the Bundesplatz (Parliament Square) transforms into a relaxed meeting place for everybody. This year’s celebration is all about community, openness and diversity.

With glowing lanterns and fluttering flags, it’s time for Helvetia’s birthday party. From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., the Bundesplatz (Parliament Square) is hosting a full-on garden party. There’s something for everyone: from family entertainment and children’s theatre to a lantern parade, free guided tours and the chance to visit the Bundeshaus (Parliament Building). All that activity is bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, there’ll be plenty of local food stalls to choose from. And grill enthusiasts can get involved too: A large barbecue will be set up where amateur grill masters can show off their skills. Oh, and you can buy the everything you need for that right on the square.

Just a taste of what the day has in store: Switzerland’s federal city surprises time and again with its unique programme of festivities. Free city tour registrations by Bern Welcome are available from 10:00 a.m. at the mobile tourist information stand on Parliament Square. Tours run every hour from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and last around 30 minutes. Choose from the following themed tours, all free of charge:

The city tours are held in German, French and Italian.

Take a look at the programme

Did you know? 1 August has been an official national holiday since the 90s.