Saint Berchtold's Day

What Is Saint Berchtold’s Day?

Saint Berchtold’s Day, known locally as “Berchtoldstag”, is a public holiday primarily observed in Switzerland and Liechtenstein on 2nd January. This day traditionally commemorates Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen, who founded the city of Bern in 1191. It functions as a continuation of New Year celebrations and is marked by various local customs and gatherings.

The holiday is observed in the majority of Swiss cantons, though not all, and it is a full public holiday in the Principality of Liechtenstein. On this day, many businesses, banks, and schools are closed, allowing individuals to spend time with family and friends. While its name includes “Saint”, the holiday is more a celebration of a historical figure and ancient winter traditions rather than a religious feast day dedicated to a canonised saint.

History and Origins of Saint Berchtold’s Day

The origins of Saint Berchtold’s Day are complex, intertwining historical narrative with older folk customs. The holiday’s name is most commonly linked to Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen, the traditional founder of Bern. According to legend, Berchtold V vowed to name his new city after the first animal he encountered during a hunt, which turned out to be a bear. This event established the bear as the heraldic animal of Bern, a symbol still prominent today.

Beyond the ducal connection, the traditions observed on Berchtoldstag may also have roots in ancient Germanic winter festivals. These pre-Christian observances often included rituals to ward off evil spirits, ensure fertility, and mark the passage of the darkest part of winter. The figure of “Berchtold” or “Perchta” (a Germanic goddess or spirit) is sometimes associated with these traditions, particularly in alpine regions, symbolising an old woman who inspects households and punishes idleness. Over centuries, these various threads likely converged to form the modern observance, with the Christian calendar absorbing and transforming older practices.

How Saint Berchtold’s Day Is Celebrated

Celebrations for Saint Berchtold’s Day vary across the regions of Switzerland and Liechtenstein but generally involve social gatherings and traditional activities. It is largely a day for families and friends to meet, often over a meal or coffee, extending the festive mood of New Year’s Day.

Celebrations in Bern

In the city of Bern, the association with bears is particularly strong. Children often parade through the streets carrying bear figures or dressed in bear costumes. A notable tradition involves the “Bäredyner” (bear servants) who visit homes and establishments, collecting money or treats, often to the accompaniment of traditional music. Small figures of bears, made from marzipan or other confectioneries, are also popular.

Celebrations in Other Cantons

In other parts of Switzerland, particularly in the German-speaking cantons, the day is typically observed with quiet family gatherings. Traditional dishes may be prepared, and it is common for people to visit friends and neighbours. Some communities may have specific local parades or events, sometimes featuring masked figures or noisy processions aimed at driving away winter spirits, echoing the ancient roots of the festival. For example, in parts of the canton of Aargau, children play with wooden spinning tops called “Berchtoldswürfel” or “Berchtoldskreisel”. In Liechtenstein, the day is also a public holiday observed primarily as a day of rest and family time, often with similar customs of visiting and socialising.

When Is Saint Berchtold’s Day?

Saint Berchtold’s Day is observed annually on a fixed date: 2nd January. This places it directly after New Year’s Day, acting as a continuation of the New Year period of observance. The holiday follows the Gregorian calendar system and does not vary in date. It is consistently marked on the second day of January each year, providing an extended festive break for many people in the regions where it is recognised as a public holiday.

Saint Berchtold’s Day Key Facts