Aug 01, 2021
Switzerland National Day 2021
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle honors Switzerland’s National Day, the official holiday celebrated each year on August 1. This date was selected by the Swiss federal council in the late 1800s to honor the historic alliance between the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. With the formation of this alliance in early August of 1291, the Swiss Confederation was founded.
To celebrate this historic anniversary, festivities typically begin on the eve of National Day with a grand display of fireworks and lighting effects at Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. On the holiday itself, local cultural leaders deliver speeches during community gatherings, complemented by concerts, gymnastic displays, and choruses performing the national anthem in any of the country's official national languages: French, German, and Italian, and Romansh.
Swiss National Day traditions are brightened by paper lanterns, which illuminate the cobblestone streets of villages at night. Many of these streets are filled with the aroma of bread rolls traditionally adorned with a miniature Swiss flag, as depicted in the Doodle artwork.
Happy National Day, Switzerland!
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More