Sechseläuten

Sechseläuten is a traditional Swiss spring festival held annually in Zurich, Switzerland. The event takes place on the third Monday of April, marking the end of winter and the beginning of warmer weather. The name "Sechseläuten" translates to "the burning of the seven" in Swiss German, referring to the burning of a symbolic snow figure called the Böögg.

The festival's origins date back to the Middle Ages, serving as a guild celebration marking the start of the new season. Today, it remains a prominent cultural event attended by locals and tourists alike. The festivities feature a parade of dressed-up guilds and civic organizations, historical costumes, and ceremonial processions through Zurich’s Old Town.

A central feature of Sechseläuten is the burning of the Böögg, a large snowman-like figure filled with gunpowder, which is placed atop a pyre in Sechseläutenplatz, the main town square. The Böögg's head is set ablaze, and the speed at which its head explodes is believed to forecast the upcoming summer weather—an early explosion often indicating a warm summer.

Throughout the day, there are also various cultural events, performances, and family activities. The festival concludes with the burning of the Böögg in the late afternoon. Sechseläuten embodies Zurich's cultural heritage and community spirit, combining historical tradition with modern festivities to celebrate the arrival of spring.