10 Bernese highlights in December

“Don’t buy the gifts at the last minute” – a New Year’s resolution we’ve almost forgotten by the end of the year. But it’s still possible thanks to Bern’s traditional First Advent sale: on 1 December, numerous shops in the lower part of the old town are opening their doors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for some relaxed shopping. Festive entertainment is provided by “Samichlous” (Santa) at the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and the Advent choir in Kramgasse. You weren’t able to make it on the First Advent or didn’t get everything you needed? No problem, you’ve still got the annual “Sonntagsverkauf” (Sunday sales) on 15 and 22 December, in which shops can participate voluntarily.

For many people, the first fondue of the season marks the start of winter and the holiday season. There are no limits to where you can enjoy the traditional treat: in your own dining room, in a cosy ski hut, or even al fresco. At the Hotel Innere Enge in the Engeried neighbourhood, you’ll discover a whole new fondue experience during the winter months: it is served in an original Mongolian yurt with a fantastic view of the city of Bern. A wonderful fusion of two different cultures, in our opinion. You can enjoy the classic version or try the ones with truffle or alpine herbs. For wine lovers, a fine wine from the Lavaux region rounds off the cosy evening.

Speaking about different cultures: we’re obviously not the only ones who celebrate Christmas and have beloved Christmas traditions. In the federal city, there are embassies from countries from all over the world, each with their own way of celebrating. In Colombia, people play games together, in Romania they sing Christmas carols (“colindatul”), in Ghana there are colourful festivals, and the Philippines have the longest Christmas season in the world, with the festivities beginning on 1 September! One thing that all Christmas traditions around the world have in common: it’s about coming together and sharing food. We’ve put together the recipes of typical dishes for you to try out. Who knows, maybe some of you will be serving Colombian “buñuelos” instead of the traditional fondue chinoise (meat fondue) this year?

The most exclusive perfume, a designer handbag, the new iPhone – Christmas is a time of giving and the wish lists are long. But not everyone in Switzerland can afford gifts. It is often forgotten that there are many people in Switzerland who are affected by poverty. The “Eine Million Sterne” (one million stars) campaign aims to help. On 14 December, people can donate five francs and light a candle on Bundesplatz to express their solidarity for those affected. Because that’s what Christmas is about, too: being kind and giving hope. That is the true gift that keeps on giving.

The Bernese love meeting at and browsing the different Christmas markets in December. Be it the magical Sternenmarkt, the classic Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz, the traditional crafts market on the “Pläfe” (Minster terrace), or the market in Huttwil, one of the most beautiful in the country – there’s something for every taste. Speaking of taste: for epicures, we recommend the different winter pop-ups. In the courtyard of the Berner Generationenhaus (Bern House of Generations), you can enjoy warming drinks in a cosy atmosphere. Oskar Elch at Ringgenpark, on the other hand, promises a Nordic experience: in addition to the traditional mulled wine, they serve “Gløgg”, the sweet Scandinavian version made from red wine, korn or vodka, and spices.

What would Christmas in Bern be without “Samichlous” (Santa Claus), fondue, Christmas markets – and the ice-skating rink in front of the Bundeshaus (Parliament Building). Enjoy a few rounds of “Schlööfle” (ice skating) against the spectacular backdrop wrapped up in warm clothes and with your sweetheart, best friend or family by your side. And if you get hungry from all the pirouettes or your teeth are starting to chatter, go and warm up in the wooden chalets and enjoy a “Heissi Schoggi” (hot chocolate) or a creamy fondue. The rink will remain on Bundesplatz until February. Admission to is free and there are practical skating aids for kids.

When the night falls, it’s time for scary stories and spooky legends. In the past, this was also when the night watchman started his shift, equipped with a flowing cloak, lantern and halberd. How did a night watchman in the Middle Ages handle suspicious people who were out and about at night? Were there closing times back then or did people stay out until the early hours of the morning? Did the night watchman come across ghosts or other magical creatures on his tour? Why did he find Kreuzgasse so scary? And why was he often annoyed by the tower guards? Find out on this night-time stroll through the dark alleyways of Bern’s old town.

Astrid Lindgren’s wonderful works include classics such as Pippi Longstocking, Karlsson-on-the-Roof and Emil of Lönneberga. In December, however, her equally well-known and well-loved Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter, takes centre stage at Bühnen Bern. As her name suggests, Ronja grows up among robbers as the daughter of the chief. Her life takes a surprising turn when she meets Birk, the son of the enemy robber chief, and the two of them become friends. This is strictly forbidden, so their friendship is met with great resistance and must overcome a number of obstacles. Bühnen Bern takes the audience on a journey into the harsh yet fascinating world of robbers and tells a captivating story about friendship, animosity, and courage. 

“Alohomora!” In the world of Harry Potter and his friends, this spell opens (almost) every door. It would definitely come in handy on a visit to the Harry Potter-themed Mastermind Escape Room in Bern! However, as our invitation to the Hogwarts School of Magic has not (yet) arrived, we have to get out using earthly skills such as logic, teamwork, intelligence and tactics. Gather a group of muggles (non-wizards) and solve the mystery of Diagon Alley together. But remember that time is ticking – all of the puzzles must be solved within 60 minutes.

The Achetringele New Year’s Eve procession in the town of Laupen has a long-standing tradition. Evil spirits are driven out of the medieval town with a lot of noise and “gfürchig” (scary) wooden masks, ensuring a happy start to the New Year. The procession through Laupen, led by the masked “Bäsemanne” (broom men), “Glöggeler” (bell ringers) all in white and “Blaateremannli” (bladder men), stops at five places along the way to recite a traditional New Year’s verse and New Year’s wish. This is followed by a chase with inflated “Söiblatere” (pig bladders), after which the evil spirits will hopefully be banished in time for the New Year. The impressive spectacle begins at 8 p.m. at Laupen Castle and spectators are more than welcome.