Good Friday 2025

Description

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that remembers the crucifixion and death of Jesus. It is a solemn day for prayer, reflection, and thinking about the meaning of sacrifice and forgiveness.

The date changes each year because it depends on the date of Easter. Good Friday always falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday, usually sometime in March or April.

In Switzerland Good Friday is a public holiday in most cantons. That means many people have the day off work and some shops and offices close. It is not a federal holiday everywhere.

The day is important for Christians because it marks a key event in the story of Jesus. It leads into Easter Sunday which celebrates his resurrection and new life, a central belief of the faith.

Traditions

In many Swiss towns people attend solemn church services or outdoor processions, especially in Catholic regions like Ticino and around pilgrimage sites. Passion plays and quiet hymns are found in some villages, but music is often low or absent.

Good Friday feels very quiet. Church bells may be muted and shops often close, so streets are calm. Families gather for reflection, walks are slow, and public events are subdued rather than festive.

Meals tend to be simple. Fish dishes, light soups and plain bread are common, and some families keep a small fast. Homes may have candles lit and spring flowers placed quietly as part of the day.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks and some museums are closed or have short hours on Good Friday. Trains run but timetables can change and buses may be less frequent. Book tickets and restaurants in advance and carry cash in case small shops are closed.

Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or scenic trains to avoid crowds. Expect busy roads around midday and late afternoon. Follow local signs, wear proper shoes and layers for weather, keep ID and emergency numbers handy, and respect quieter areas for a safe, pleasant visit.