Switzerland

Berchtold's Day, January 2. Honors Duke Berchtold V, who founded Bern, the capitol of Switzerland, in the twelfth-century. According to legend, he left on a hunt declaring he would name the city for the first animal he killed, which was a bear, or Bern in German.
Independence Day, August 1. Commemorates the formation of the Everlasting League in 1291 by three cantons, which became the basis of the Swiss Confederation. Also known as Confederation Day or National Day.
Homstrom, first Sunday in February (Feb 1, 2004). A celebration of the end of winter. Observed by burning straw men which symbolizes the departing of Old Man Winter.
May Day Eve, April 30. See May Day and Walpurgis Night.
Glarus Festival, first Thursday in April (Apr 1, 2004). Commemorates the victory over the Austrians on April 9, 1388.

Public holidays   New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labor Day (May 1), Ascension Day, Whitmonday, Independence Day, Christmas, and Boxing Day.