How to spend 1 August: ideas for celebrating on Lake Maggiore

How to spend 1 August at Lake Maggiore: if the whole Confederation celebrates 1st August, what’s so special about celebrating it on Lake Maggiore?

Flags flying in the gardens, on the balconies, in the windows and along the streets, fireworks, bangers, sparklers and fountains are traditions shared by all the cantons, as is watching the speech given by the president of the Confederation on television, or listening to it on the radio, and the bells that ring in the party at exactly 8 pm across Switzerland. But other traditions are unique and special. If you’ve never celebrated 1st August in the Lake Maggiore region or its valleys, here are some good ideas for celebrating National Day in Ascona-Locarno.

Hiking with a typical Swiss picnic: whether with family, friends or your better half, a walk in the mountains is always a good idea in good weather. 

Prepare an impeccable Swiss picnic for the occasion: dried meat, Ticino sausage, cervelat, alpine cheese, Gazzosa (typical Ticino soda) and Ovomaltine bars are a must. The vegetarian alternative? Crispy bread with grilled seasonal vegetables, potato salad, tomatoes, dried fruit and a nice fruit salad. And don't forget the Swiss flags! 

Brunch on the farm: the region’s farms open their doors to welcome you for a traditional brunch, one of the nicest ways for families to celebrate National Day. With so many places to try, finding the ideal spot is easy: brunch in the region’s mountains for passionate hikers or brunch on the farm among cows, horses and goats, much to the delight of children. Whatever the case, the main feature of these celebrations is a delicious meal prepared by hand with love and typical local products. The kids can learn to socialise with the farm animals while you enjoy the tractor display. Come and see how we celebrate being Swiss!