Zurich: Sechseläuten, The Fiery Farewell to Winter

 

Several times in spring, the city of Zurich celebrates a colorful tradition, community and fire in one — Sechseläuten (zeks-uh-loy-ten), the Swiss festival like no other.

Sechseläuten is rooted in history, wrapped in pageantry and where age-old guild customs meet in a fiery farewell to winter.

What is Sechseläuten?

The symbolic change from winter to summer working hours is Sechseläuten (the six o’clock ringing of the bells).

This dates to the 16th century when guildsmen, after the winter season ended, were allowed to work longer days.

Nowadays, it has been transformed into a magnificent spring event to be celebrated in April with both local and overseas visitors.

When and Where

An annual celebration in Zurich, taking place on the third Monday of April, the climax of the festival falls in Sechseläutenplatz, the large promenade in front of the Opera House.

The square becomes a stage for flames, for tradition and for celebration.

The Main Events

1. Guild Parade (Zunftumzug)

Among other highlights of Sechseläuten is the colorful procession of Zurich’s historic guilds.

They also march through the city in traditional costumes, on horses, given flower adorned carriages, marching bands, and also sometimes children dressed like they are from historical times.

The parade is a museum in the making, a living museum about the traditions of medieval trade and craft associations in Zurich.

2. The Böögg

Toward the center of the secular holiday of Sechseläuten is a giant, menacingly white snowman figure called the Böögg — a snowman with a hollow head filled with explosives.

The Böögg sits on top of a bonfire and represents winter. When the fire is lit, everybody is looking at Böögg’s head.

The better the summer will be ahead — and the quicker it explodes, goes the tradition!

3. The Bonfire Ritual

Exactly at 6:00 PM the bells ring, the bonfire is light and the Böögg is set on fire. They watch the flames slowly climb, for they crowd.

Winter’s fierce downfall and spring’s arrival to the rescue comes more dramatically than ever: the snowy soldiers shoot flaming arrows into a giant snowman’s head who explodes — the tension builds until the grand finale.

Symbolism and Significance

However, Sechseläuten is more than a quirky celebration every year; it is symbolic to Zurich’s identity which is important because it connects the past with the present.

Long since economic powerhouses, the guilds are cultural guardians of the city’s heritage today.

The Böögg’s burning is a ritual of renewal, community sentiment towards optimism, and a hopeful look towards a warm and prosperous season.

A Celebration for Everyone

Sechseläuten is deeply rooted in local tradition but not just for Zurich’s citizens.

This unforgettable spectacle is welcome and encouraged to tourists.

The streets are alive with the festive atmosphere, with food stalls, music, as well as cultural events on offer for everyone.

Conclusion

Sechseläuten sees Zurich farewell the cold and welcome spring’s promise amongst thundering parades and snowman pyrotechnics.

For history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anybody looking to do something special — be it for yourself or as a memorable companion to a significant life event — Sechseläuten is a blazing, bright and boldfaced celebration that ignites in the heart of Switzerland.