Swiss New Year's Traditions: Ancient Customs Meet Modern Celebrations

From historic fountain-singing in Rheinfelden to contemporary festivities, Switzerland maintains unique regional New Year customs dating back centuries.

Key Takeaways

AI

The Brunnensingen (fountain-singing) tradition in Rheinfelden dates back to 1541
The Sebastiani Brotherhood consists of 12 members who sing at six fountains
Harder Potschete involves wooden mask-wearing participants called Potschen

By The Numbers

12

Number of Sebastiani Brotherhood members

6

Number of fountains visited during Brunnensingen

They Said

"Die Nacht, die ist so freudenreich (the night is so joyful)"
— Traditional Christmas carol sung during Brunnensingen

1

Introduction to Swiss New Year Traditions

2

Historical Fountain-Singing in Rheinfelden

3

Mountain Spirits and Masks: The Harder Potschete

4

Modern Celebrations and Unique Regional Customs

5

Preserving Heritage in Contemporary Times

Sources & References

Happy – and creepy – New Year in Switzerland!

SWI swissinfo.ch

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