About St. Berchtold's Day
St. Berchtold's Day, or Berchtoldstag, is a public holiday celebrated in Switzerland on January 2nd. It honors St. Berchtold, and while its origins are rooted in the medieval tradition, it has become a day for relaxation and family gatherings following the New Year celebrations.
St. Berchtold's Day is a public holiday in Switzerland. In 2026, it falls on Friday, January 2. In the local language, this holiday is known as "Berchtoldstag". This holiday does not fall on the same date every year — its date varies annually.
This is a regional holiday and may only be observed in certain areas of Switzerland. Observed in: CH-BE, CH-FR, CH-SH, CH-AG, CH-TG, CH-VD.
Traditions & Customs
In Switzerland, people often use Berchtoldstag as an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing with family and friends. Many towns host local events, including parades and traditional music performances, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the country.
Did You Know?
St. Berchtold's Day is unique to Switzerland and is not widely celebrated in other countries, making it a special occasion for the Swiss people.
Holiday Details
| Holiday Name | St. Berchtold's Day |
| Local Name | Berchtoldstag |
| Date | Friday, January 2, 2026 |
| Country |  Switzerland |
| Type | Public |
| Scope | Regional — observed in select areas |
| Fixed Date | No — date varies annually |
Holiday Greeting
"Berchtoldstag vui!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Berchtold's Day a public holiday in all Swiss cantons?
No, St. Berchtold's Day is a public holiday in some cantons, but not all of them. It's particularly recognized in cantons like Bern and Lucerne, where local traditions are more prominent.
What activities are popular on St. Berchtold's Day in Switzerland?
Many Swiss families take advantage of the day off to engage in outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, or ice skating. Additionally, local festivities often include traditional music and community gatherings.
Are there any special foods associated with St. Berchtold's Day?
While there are no specific foods tied exclusively to St. Berchtold's Day, many families enjoy traditional Swiss dishes during their gatherings. Fondue and raclette are popular choices, reflecting the country's culinary heritage.
When is St. Berchtold's Day 2026 in Switzerland?
St. Berchtold's Day 2026 in Switzerland falls on Friday, January 2, 2026.
Is St. Berchtold's Day a public holiday in Switzerland?
Yes, St. Berchtold's Day is a public holiday in Switzerland. It may only be observed in certain regions.
Is St. Berchtold's Day on the same date every year?
St. Berchtold's Day does not have a fixed date and varies from year to year.
Liechtenstein