We’ve been definitely feeling the Christmas spirit a bit more this year with the numerous Christmas markets up and running this year. Today we are sharing with you several festive activities going on in and around Lucerne which we hope will help create a sense of wonder and holiday warmth for you and your loved ones.
First let’s look at what rules are in place. At the time we write the following will apply.
- Private gatherings are limited to 30 people indoors (10 if a person 16 years or older is present who has not been vaccinated or recovered)
- Outdoor limit for private gatherings is 50 people
- For outdoor events with more than 300 people, the 3G rule continues to apply.
- The 2G rule applies, meaning only vaccinated and recovered people are allowed to enter interiors of restaurants, cultural, sports and recreational venues, as well as indoor events, with a seating rule and obligation to wear a mask.
Fun Activities & Food
Most Christmas markets will run until tomorrow, December 23, so make sure to visit and really feel the Christmas vibe if you have not yet done so
Christmas in Lucerne has to include a hot glühwein taking in the beautiful city lights from the KKL, and watching people twirl on the outdoor ice rink.
Live on Ice: December 12 to January 2; This feels very Christmasy and is free (unless you need to rent skates). The opening hours are:
Monday to Friday: 4pm to 10pm
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 1pm to 22pm
From Sunday, 26 December: daily from 1pm to 22pm
Skating rink at the Mall of Switzerland. Another option for those who enjoy skating can be found in Ebikon. More information can be found HERE.
The Zum Pfistern restaurant has a a winter wonderland under the restaurant’s stone arches which looks magical. There you can sit outdoors, wrapped in a warm blanket and enjoy one of their versions of cheese fondue. Or for CHF 79.- you can go full out, starts with a glass of glühwein and marroni, enjoy a horse drawn carriage tour of the city whilst eating fondue and end up back at the restaurant for a piece of lebkuchen cake in the carriage (a bottle of wine, tea and glühwein is included in the price).
The hotel Kastanienbaum (in Kastanienbaum) even goes so far as to offer your own mini chalet for you to enjoy your fondue in, whilst taking in the view onto the lake .
The restaurant Moosmatt has a fondue chalet and is much closer to downtown.
The hotel Seeburg is renowned for its over the top Christmas light display and they also have a fondue chalet to enjoy a cosy evening.
Oh Tannenbaum – or where to get your Christmas tree.
We all seem to be in the mood to get decorating earlier than usual and the local shops have sensed this. There are many places to pick a Christmas tree up: Landi, Coop Bau & Hobby, Migros amongst others all have trees for sale.
But you might want to support some local producers (and maybe even rent a tree?), in which case we can recommend:
Gartnerei Niederberger in Kriens
Ottiger Baumschule in Rothenburg
Willisauer Christbaum in Willisau
Ecosapin offers several companies you can get environmentally grown trees for sale or rent.
But, of course, the big market locals wait for is the Christmas Tree market down on the Seepromenade which runs from December 16 to 23.
You are spoilt for choice. Just remember to regularly water your tree, check the electric lights and do not leave any candles lit unattended on the tree.
Church services in English in the region
For those who want to celebrate Christmas with a church service there are several services in English to be enjoyed in Lucerne and Zürich.
Lucerne
The International Church of Lucerne has their sunday service at 10.30 and will have a special Christmas Eve service from 22.00 as well as a social get-together beforehand. More information can be found HERE
The catholic church now offers services in English at the St Peter’s chapel on Saturdays at 17.30. There will be a Christmas Eve vigil at 19.30 on December 24th.
Zurich
The Anglican Church, St Andrew’s Church, have their main service on Sundays at 10.30 and will have a Christmas Eve service at 22.00 and a Christmas Day service at 10.30. The schedule can be found HERE
The International Protestant Church have a Christmas Eve service at 18.00 both in-person and online. Online link available HERE
Merry Christmas everyone!
New Year’s Celebration
Don’t miss the traditional New Year’s firework display over Lucerne bay, which is expected to take place at 8.15 p.m on January 1st.
Happy holidays to you and your loved ones!
