The New Year is a crucial day for everyone. We all love celebrating it in a frenzied mood. Similarly, countries also have their own tradition of celebrating the arrival of the New Year. The aim of each tradition is to bid adieu to the year on a happy note and embrace the new one with a positive vibe. Every new year comes with hope. It brings expectations of prosperity. And the same in Switzerland. How do you plan to welcome the new year 2026? How about welcoming the new year here? Sounds great, right? The New Year 2026 in Switzerland will be vibrant, enchanting and packed with adventure as millions of people from across the globe will come here to mark the beginning of the year. You may join them this time.
Places To Celebrate New Year 2026 in Switzerland: Celebrating at Large
Here is a secret - as per the traditions, New Year in Switzerland is celebrated twice a year. The Julian calendar is followed in the country and so, on the 13th of January, the new year is celebrated for the second time. It is also known as Sylvester’s day, a day of exchanging presents and dining with families.During this period, the streets are filled with people dressed in colorful costumes and performing a ceremony to chase evil spirits during the festive season.
The most ideal way of bringing the new year in is with live music, fireworks and drinks. People can celebrate New Year on the banks of the River Limmat and Lake Zurich. Ringing of the church bells at midnight and the fireworks that lit up the sky is a special way of bringing in New Year.
1. Interlaken - Bring in the New Year 2026 with Music and Fireworks

With a range of interesting parties, each year Interlaken attracts millions of people. This is an ideal location to celebrate New Year 2026 in Switzerland. Interlaken hosts multiple parties and events to welcome the new year. There is music and the skies will be decorated with fireworks on the New Year Eve.
The festivities don’t end at Interlaken on 1st January. You shouldn't miss the breathtaking fireworks show on the Höhematte. A fun-filled open-air concert featuring prominent Swiss performers will kick off the new year. Enjoy the joyful ambiance created by Trychler and folklore ensembles, as well as the variety of food tents, on Interlaken's seafront. Get the new year off to the bangs with Touch the Mountain where world class artists will perform and the traditional entertainment is provided by Trychler and folklore groups. If you want to enjoy your favorite music from close and experience the unique atmosphere of the artist's performance, get to the Golden Circle.
People are given a glimpse of the streets filled with hardermann, in continuation of the new year celebrations. Horseback riding, parasailing, backpacking and much more are some of the adventure activities people can enjoy. People can even enjoy skydiving in the mountains. Few of the events which are taking place to celebrate the Christmas and New year are:
- A unique skating experience at ICE MAGIC Interlaken
- Local Christmas markets throughout the Holiday Region Interlaken
- Winterzauber Interlaken: Christmas market and Christmas shopping
- Switzerland’s longest New Year’s Eve featuring the traditional Harder-Potschete parade in Interlaken
- New Year's Concerts
2. St. Moritz - Enjoy Fun-Filled Activities on New Year

Have you made new year plans yet? If you haven’t yet, then you’re in for a treat. If you like adventure, then St. Moritz is the place for you as horse racing on ice, cricket, polo and much more are some of the activities to enjoy. It is one of the most interesting ways of bringing in the New Year 2026 in Switzerland with your family and friends. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to having so much? It is a once in a lifetime opportunity people should not miss.
In the evening, join the crowd to watch the massive fireworks to celebrate the New Year 2026. It’s a magical experience you won’t forget. If you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to relax and enjoy, St. Moritz has something for everyone. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you should not miss. Plan your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable New Year 2026 celebration in the heart of the Swiss Alps!
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3. Lugano - Bringing in the New Year 2026 in a Stylish Way

On New Year's Eve, this picturesque Swiss city in the south of Switzerland, popularly known as the Monte Carlo of Switzerland, attracts travellers from all over the world, including the wealthy and famous. In December, Lugano changes into a winter wonderland with Christmas and New Year's markets, decorations and lights.
Get your coat and travel to Piazza Della Riforma for the big open-air event, where you can dance and sing till the wee hours of the morning with tens of thousands of other partygoers, because Lugano knows how to throw a New Year's Eve party. A light show will brighten the sky and the beautiful Piazza backdrop. At 11 a.m., there will be a procession from Piazza Della Riforma to the Palazzi Dei Congressi. This big banquet to greet 2026 on the stunning shores of Lake Lugano will feature fantastic cuisine, live music and entertainment. Reserve a table at one of the numerous hotels holding New Year's Eve events to unwind.
4. Geneva - Best Fireworks to Bring in the New Year

Geneva is said to have the best fireworks show in Switzerland on New Year. People from around the world come to visit the place just for this. The city has a unique theme every New Year's Eve along with live music that people can tap their feet to all night long. One of the most interesting things to do in Switzerland is to listen to music played till wee hours of the morning at Planipalas square. There is a lot to witness in terms of stereotypical images.
On the New Year Eve, you must be ecstatic about the magnificent celebration taking place in Lake Geneva to say farewell to the old year and welcome the new. Prepare your glittery, gorgeous apparel and make your way to some of Lake Geneva's best New Year's Eve parties. End the year with a crazy party where you may dance till you drop.
For those who appreciate the offbeat, there are some truly interesting weekend adventures scheduled for the new year. Take part in some of the incredible New Year 2026 festivities taking place in Lake Geneva and be a part of the magnificent celebration. Prepare to ring in the New Year in 2026 in Switzerland.
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5. Davos - Ring in the New Year 2026 in the Alps

The New Year 2026 in Davos is one of Switzerland's most anticipated events. The celebrations in Davos will be huge due to the abundance of enjoyable activities. No matter where you are, there is excitement and energy in the air as people celebrate the New Year.
Furthermore, 2026 offers a lot of possibilities for your vacation. The city will be drenched in colours. Everyone, whether in luxurious hotels or crowded areas, is dressed for the party atmosphere. The music at nightclubs is guaranteed to make your heart race and your feet tap all night. On New Year's Eve in Davo, you'll be taken aback when you get to ski beneath the brilliant fireworks. Aside from traditional skiing sports, several upmarket hotels throw themed parties. The arranged festivities and fun games at the hotel will make Davos New Year 2026 highly remarkable. The meal is delicious and the atmosphere is stunning.
Because of the hotel's great service and festive atmosphere, it's tough to resist spending New Year's Eve in Davos at the InterContinental Davos. Every year, a polished and regal crowd may be seen here. The hotel prepares a spectacular banquet for guests who booked a New Year Package.
6. Zurich - Ring in the New Year by the Lake

Millions of people assemble around Lake Zurich to ring in the new year 2026, making it one of the best places in Switzerland to do it. Zurich features a plethora of stunning New Year's Eve parties, including live music performances, massive fireworks display, wonderful cuisine and lots of fine wine. When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, fireworks are frequent and Switzerland is not far behind in producing some stunning presentations for the public. Zurich's New Year's Eve event is a great blend of tradition, culture and fun. From evening 8, a big crowd gathers at the area, relishing the cuisines, drinking and in a celebratory mood.But the show stealer is fireworks, which entice every lover in the city to be a part of the spectacular. Zurich Lake is a prominent firework location where Swiss New Year's Eve is celebrated with a brilliant display of fire shoots in the sky. Zurich Lake will also host the largest Silvesterzauber celebration, complete with a dance floor, live banging music and entertainment. On New Year's Eve, several hotel restaurants organize lavish banquets and galas. You can book our Switzerland New Year packages and experience a mesmerising New in Zurich.
7. Zermatt - Ring in a New Beginning with all Kinds of Festivities

People visiting Zermatt will not be disappointed with the stunning après ski. The World Snow Awards gave Zermatt the title “World’s best après ski resort. Tourists can visit 35 bars and 9 nightclubs for its champagne or spray. To keep the traditions alive, people gather by the church and wait till midnight to bring in the festivities. Hennu Stall is a popular venue in Zermatt to enjoy New Year’s Eve as people can tap their feet to the sound of music played by a DJ.
When it comes to having the best new year celebrations in the world, Zermatt is the place for you. Ring in a new beginning in the most special way possible.
8. Lucerne - Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Peace

If you are in Lucerne, Switzerland, you will have the finest New Year's Eve party this year. Tourists are awe struck by the charming lakes, fluffy winter snow and breathtaking views. Winters in Lucerne is the best time to ski. Walking in the cold and snowshoe trek is something people can enjoy in this fascinating weather. If you're wondering what's available for the New Year's Eve celebration, look no further. People can ring in a new beginning in peace and quiet on New Year's Eve at Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. There will be Great Gatsby parties, dancing activities, ball drops and much more in Lucerne. This year's New Year's Eve celebrations in Lucerne are packed with activities. There are several events and festivals available, ranging from fireworks to dawn celebrations. So, whether it's a quiet night with friends, a large party or family time, you'll have it. Lucerne is the most stunning destination to celebrate the New Year 2026 in Switzerland andis the one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.
9. Basel - Celebrate an Unforgettable New Year 2026

Spending time by the Rhine river is anyway a mesmerising feeling, but how would you feel about celebrating the new year in a city located on the Rhine river? Amazing! From the New Year's Eve gala to the traditional festivities, you'll be in awe of the beauty this city adorns to welcome the coming year. From singing together to a serene church service and much more, your new year celebration here would be a unique and peaceful one. The old-world charm of this city enriches the festivities here.
On New Year’s Eve, the city lights up with fireworks, creating a magical atmosphere. Basel’s old-world charm makes the celebrations even more memorable. Strolling through the historic streets, you can feel the festive spirit in the air. The warm and welcoming vibe of the city will make your New Years' experience truly unforgettable.
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10. Vevey - Welcome New Year the Switzerland Style

Vevey, a town on Lake Geneva is the best destination for celebrating the new year with complete gusto and festive vibes. The clubs, bars and lively performances make the night a fun and exciting one. The fireworks at midnight are the cherry on top because as you watch the entire city light up, you can't help but revel in the happy vibes. You can spend time with your loved ones by Lake Geneva and experience the town coming alive with vibrant decorations and join the locals for a countdown at midnight. A new year in such a picturesque destination should definitely be on your bucket list.
New Year 2026 in Switzerland is one of the most stunning ways of celebrating a new beginning. There are a million places to visit and party away all night with friends and family. You may enjoy the evening with music, food and fun, since there are limitless possibilities for entertainment and amusement. From Interlaken to Geneva and Zurich, you may organise the greatest vacation you can imagine. There will be an appealing taste of Swiss pleasures to provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. New Year is a popular festive season people often enjoy with their loved ones and look forward to each year. So, go ahead, avail yourself of the best Switzerland tour packages and join the new year party to have the best time of your life.
New Year 2026 in Switzerland - FAQ's
Celebrations include more than popping the corks. The entire town celebrates parades which include people wearing masked figures, drums, bells and whip cracking. The Julian calendar is followed in the country and so, on the 13th of January, the new year is celebrated for the second time. It is also known as Sylvester’s day- a day of exchanging presents and dining with families.
With a range of interesting parties, each year Interlaken attracts millions of people. Interlake hosts several events which take place in order to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Few of them are;
- A unique skating experience at ICE MAGIC Interlaken
- Local Christmas markets throughout the Holiday Region Interlaken
- Winterzauber Interlaken: Christmas market and Christmas shopping
It is more than just a holiday resort. St Moritz was the birthplace of Alphine winter and has hosted the winter Olympics. The town is known for its mineral springs, founded 3,000 years ago and has a summer spa resort.
April to October is the best time to visit Switzerland as the weather is pleasant. The most ideal way of bringing the new year in is with live music, fireworks and drinks. People can celebrate New Year on the banks of the River Limmat and Lake Zurich. The ringing of the church bells at midnight and the fireworks that lit up the sky is a special way of bringing in New Year.
People can spend at least 5 days in Switzerland as the country has a lot to offer in terms of shopping, historical sites and much more. One can get around by train, bus or car. People will never have a dull moment.
Lucerne is the most stunning destination to celebrate New Year's Eve in Switzerland. Tourists are awe struck by the charming lakes, fluffy winter snow and breathtaking views. Winters in Lucerne is the best time to ski. Walking in the cold and snowshoe trek is something people can enjoy in this fascinating weather.
The one stop holiday destination in Switzerland, Geneva is said to have the best fireworks show in the country on New Year. The city has a unique theme every New Year's Eve along with live music that people can tap their feet to all night long. One of the most interesting things to do is to listen to music played till the wee hours of the morning at Planipalas Square. There is a lot to witness in terms of stereotypical images.
To celebrate the New Year 2026 the stylish way, people can think of Piazza Della Riforma in Lugano. The finest drinks, dance performances, musical events and yummy food are some the most ideal ways of bringing in the New Year in Switzerland 2026 in Lugano. One of the most popular performances by a Swiss DJ is something people should witness.