The Christmas holiday season is a great time to visit Switzerland and the city of Lucerne. The mountains around the town are covered in snow and the city is illuminated by tasteful Christmas lights. There are many Christmas markets and activities to visit. Then, once Christmas is over, the next holiday knocks on the door: New Year’s Eve. But does Lucerne have any firework shows, and where best to watch the spectacle?
No official firework show on the 31st of December, but on January 1st
In contrary to many other European cities, Lucerne does not have an official firework show on New Year’s Eve. However, consumer fireworks are for sale in the week leading up to the holiday, and many people in Switzerland do welcome the new year at midnight with a small private show. It is therefore safe to say that if you are spending New Year’s Eve in Lucerne, you will see plenty of fireworks!
Disappointed about the lack of professional fireworks show to kick off the new year? That disappointment could be a short one, at least if you are still in Lucerne on the evening of January 1! On the first of January at 20.15 (8.15 PM), the leading hotels of Lucerne and Lucern Tourism organise a fireworks show on the lake.
The show, lasting about 15-20 minutes, is best seen from the main bridge close to the train station, and the lake promenade in front of the hotels. Make sure to be in time if you want a good spot, because the fireworks show is incredibly popular! For those who prefer less crowded spots, the Bahnhofstrasse (the street of the Chapel Bridge) or an higher area in town are good alternatives
The best places to see the fireworks on New Year’s Eve
If you want to see the fireworks launched by individuals in Lucerne, there are a few great places. You will see a lot of nice fireworks close to the lake and the old town, as it is a popular place to welcome the new year. Fancy a bit of a climb? Then make your way to the Museggmauer before the clock strikes 12. Although the wall is closed during the winter and during evenings, there are still plenty of places up there with amazing panoramas over the entire city and beyond. Another spot with great views are the park up at Chateau Gütsch. Here, you look out all over the old town and the Vierwaldstättersee.
Finally, you can make your way to Dreilindenpark for a great view over the city. This park is a bit remote, so it might only make sense if you are living or staying close to this spot. If you are staying at one of the lakeside hotels, just admiring the view from the promenade is also highly recommended.
All in all, there will be fireworks to admire on New Year’s Eve in Lucerne, but no official show. For that, you have to wait almost 24 hours longer. On the 1st of January 2024, at 20.15, the firework show kicks off at Lake Lucerne. Make sure to make your way there in time, as there will be a lot of people!
You can find more information about the Neujahrszauber fireworks show here.
