The firework display organised by the hoteliers of Zurich viewed from the Gemüsebrücke bridge (Photo: iStockphoto.com)

Every country has its own particular New Year customs: In Germany they pour lead, in Italy they put their faith in red underwear to bring the joys of love – and in Switzerland, we drive away the evil spirits.

In many places in Switzerland, the New Year’s Eve celebrations tend to be loud and lively. And with good reason: There are boisterous processions, crackling fireworks, drums, bells, whips and rattles, all intended to dispel spirits and demons.

In the Canton of Appenzell for example, the Silvesterkläuse go from door to door, wishing the residents all the best for the New Year. In the Bernese Oberland, the ‘Trychler’ sound the final hour for the demons with their bells. The New Year festivities get really high-spirited in Klosters (Grisons): There, locally reared pigs race for the honour of becoming the good luck charm for the New Year.

No matter where you are and what you are doing: We would like to wish you a wonderful New Year’s Eve and all the best for the coming year!