Saint Joseph's Day in Switzerland

St. Joseph's Day is a Christian holiday celebrated every year on March 19. It is a public holiday in those parts of Switzerland that boast a predominantly Catholic population. In Christian belief, Saint Joseph is the husband of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Saint Joseph is the earthly father of Jesus Christ.

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What do people do?

Although St. Joseph's Day still is a public holiday in large areas of Switzerland, it has received less and less attention in past years. Many businesses remain open for the day.

Public life

St. Joseph's Day is a public holiday or “silent day” in the following cantons:

• Nidwalden
• Schwyz
• Ticino
• Uri
• Valais

It is also a public holiday in some communes of the following cantons:

• Graubünden
• Lucerne
• Zug

Offices, banks and schools are generally closed on St. Joseph's Day in these areas, although there may be exceptions. Many businesses remain open.

Background

According to the gospels, Saint Joseph of Nazareth was a carpenter. For this reason, he is considered the patron saint of craftspeople. The first mention of St. Joseph's Day stems from the year 1621.

Saint Joseph's Day Observances

Other holidays in March 2013 in Switzerland

• Good Friday ―Friday, March 29, 2013
• Easter Day ―Sunday, March 31, 2013