This year, we’ll be celebrating Switzerland on two days: because not only is our national holiday coming up, it’s also the 175th anniversary of the country’s federal constitution. There will be a big celebration all over Bern on 31 July and 1 August. Speaking of festivities, we’re also throwing in the opening ceremony of the Climbing & Paraclimbing World Championships on 1 August.

Lit-up lanterns and flags flying in the wind: in honour of Helvetia’s birthday, there will be a garden party on Parliament Square from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the 1st of August. From family-friendly activities such as face painting to a lantern parade to an urban garden with a market flair, there’s something for everyone. With so much going on, you’re bound to get hungry – good thing there will be several food trucks parked on Parliament Square, offering their tasty treats. Additionally, there will be a large charcoal grill at the visitors’ disposal.

But that’s not nearly everything: Every year, the federal city manages to surprise us with a fun, exciting programme.