Switzerland is stepping into 2025 with an impressive roster of events lined up for January. From ice skating to equestrian tournaments, there’s something to satisfy every taste. Here’s a rundown of some of the top events in Switzerland this 2025 set to take place across the country.
Winter Sports & Recreation: Things to Do in Switzerland January 2025
The Bundesplatz Ice Rink in Bern is a winter paradise for ice-skating enthusiasts. It allows locals and tourists to skate against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Parliament building. For those seeking to warm up after a few rounds on the ice, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and creamy cheese fondue are served at the ice rink restaurant. The event will run from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025.
Taking place from January 9 to 12, the Longines CHI Classics Basel will once again welcome the world elite of equestrianism to the St. Jakobshalle. With 21 Olympic medals among the showjumpers alone, this year’s lineup is more impressive than ever.
The Bernese Oberland will transform into the heart of Alpine skiing over two consecutive weekends. It will be home to the legendary races in Adelboden and, a few days later, the prestigious Lauberhorn races in Wengen. Ski enthusiasts can look forward to a top-tier sporting and lively atmosphere from January 11 to 12 and 17 to 19.
Cultural Festivities: January Festivals in Switzerland
Among the key Switzerland travel highlights in January is the Central Swiss Carnival Market in Brunnen. It will be celebrating its 25th anniversary on January 11. Visitors can expect to find everything from costumes, masks, and wigs to traditional Inner Swiss Carnival articles. The market also features a popular Guuggenmusik concert, followed by an after-party lasting until the early morning hours.
The traditional Silvesterchlausen celebration observed in the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden annually happens on January 13. This event, marked by participants wearing ornate masks and costumes and going door-to-door, symbolizes luck and health for the New Year.
Entertainment & Arts: Must-See January Events in Switzerland
Diego Benaglio, Stéphane Chapuisat, Mario Basler, and other football stars will participate in the Ice Snow Football in Arosa, a unique football tournament on snow. The event promises fierce competition on the snow-covered pitch from January 15 to 16 and entertainment, autograph sessions, and time with the stars.
The Beatles will conquer Zurich! The celebrated musical “All You Need is Love” will return on January 19 after a successful run in 2024.
From January 24 to 25, the 10-story car park in Saas-Fee will transform into a spectacular arena for the international ice-climbing elite. In addition to the thrilling competitions, live music and DJs will provide entertainment well into the night.
From January 22 to 29, the 60th edition of the Solothurn Film Festival will take place. The festival presents a wide selection of Swiss films and serves as a meeting point for the audience and filmmakers. It’s the most significant event for Swiss cinema.
The Festival de Ballons in Château-d’Oex will captivate for the 45th time with spectacular hot air balloons soaring over the snowy Alps from January 25 to February 2. Visitors can also partake in the exhilarating ballooning activity during the festival.
With this line-up, Switzerland is undoubtedly the place to be in January 2025!
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