SWISS CULTURE:

Switzerland is one of the richest nations in the world and most of the citizens have a high standard of living in the country. However girl’s education and empowerment are not the same as that of men but the situation is gradually getting better. It’s culture it’s a mix of Italian, German and French cultures. Depending on where you go, you will find differences in the way people do things.

FOOD:

Traditional Swiss food is made of simple ingredients and is influenced by Italian, German, and French cooking. Potatoes and cheese are important ingredients of Swiss food. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes is a traditional Swiss dish that has cream sauce flavored mushrooms and veal strips served with Rösti, a potato dish. Pizza and pasta are also popular here. Swiss cheese and chocolates are also famous around the world. Appenzeller, Vacherin, Emmental cheese are some of the most famous of Swiss cheese. Cheese’s plates like fondue are popular in the nation. Muesli and bread with jam or butter are usual breakfast foods. Quiches and tarts are also eaten by everyone. Wine is also produced in many parts of the country. Riesling X Sylvaner, Chasselas, Absinthe, Damassine, Bon Pere William are some of the alcoholic drinks produced in the country.

RELIGION AND FESTIVALS:

The state of Switzerland has no state religion. The majority of the people are Christians. However, lately not many people go to church. Most cantons of the country, however, recognize the Catholic Church or the Swiss Reformed Church. Until 2015, about 68% of the country’s population were Christians, 23.9% were non-religious, and 5.0% Muslims, the rest followed other religions.
Holidays and celebrations in the Swiss cantons are different. Christian holidays and festivals are celebrated in the nation. The National Day, a secular holiday that is celebrated countrywide is done on August 1.

CLOTHES:
The traditional costume for Swiss men has been quite simple and ordinary in most parts of the country. Leather shorts are usually something that men would wear. This comes from the fact that they live in regions with mountains as it makes it easier to move when going hiking, climbing, hunting. Men in the lowland areas wear shirts with long-sleeved jackets, trousers with stockings or tights made of wool, and a heat. The traditional costume for Swiss women is very colorful with short big sleeves. The look is completed by elaborate hair decorations, but also laced aprons, bonnets, and decorated bags. Another style is the corset with a long skirt and an apron.

MUSIC AND DANCING:

In the past, public dancing in Switzerland could only be done on special occasions. However, after World War II, rules changed, and dancing became a popular fun activity in Switzerland. Traditional dances like waltz, foxtrot, polka are popular among the Swiss and so are modern dance styles like breakdance, salsa, and rock and roll. There are also folk festivals where people can go and enjoy these dances.