A captivating video showcasing a Christmas tree adorned with flickering real candles has taken social media by storm, offering a glimpse into a historic and daring Swiss tradition. The clip, shared widely on platforms like Instagram, reveals a practice that predates electric lights, where families illuminated their festive trees with open flames.
The Viral Glimpse into a Bygone Era
The undated video features a tall, moss-green fir tree being ceremoniously lit with numerous small candles. An Instagram page named Wealth, which shared the snippet, highlighted the rarity and boldness of the act. "Most people have never seen a Christmas tradition this bold, this ancient, or this dangerous," the post stated. It explained that this was the norm across Europe before electricity, but Switzerland is one of the few places that preserved this ritual.
According to the page, select Swiss churches still perform the 'candle-lit tree lighting' exactly as it was done centuries ago. This practice is described as one of the last living traditions that captures the original atmosphere, beauty, and inherent risk of Christmas celebrations from hundreds of years ago.
Tradition, Risk, and Modern Regulations
This custom, however, comes with significant fire hazards. A 2017 report from Swissinfo.ch noted that while candles illuminate trees in homes and many churches, open flames are banned in public spaces where more than 100 people can gather. This regulation was reportedly instituted following at least 1,000 candle-related fire incidents in a single year.
The ban's current status is not entirely clear, but the tradition persists in smaller settings. As seen in the viral video, congregations of fewer than 100 people continue to celebrate with candle-lit trees. Supporting this resilience, a 2006 study from Bern University suggested that the Swiss would likely continue using real candles on their Christmas trees for the foreseeable future.
Christmas Magic Across Swiss Cities
Beyond this fiery tradition, Christmas in Switzerland is a tapestry of regional customs, warmth, and community spirit. The festive season is marked by Advent calendars, wreaths, and enchanting Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkte). These markets fill town squares with handmade crafts, mulled wine, gingerbread, and festive melodies.
Families often gather on Christmas Eve for cozy meals featuring fondue, roast meats, or traditional biscuits like mailänderli and zimtsterne. Children eagerly await Samichlaus (St. Nicholas) on December 6, who arrives with treats. Snowy villages, midnight masses, and softly lit chalets complete the magical ambience.
For those seeking this authentic festive experience, here are three top Swiss destinations:
Zurich
Switzerland's largest city transforms into a winter wonderland. Highlights include the dazzling "Lucy" Christmas lights and the iconic singing Christmas tree at Werdmuhleplatz. The backdrop of Lake Zurich and multiple themed markets create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lucerne
With its medieval architecture and snow-dusted bridges, Lucerne offers a storybook Christmas. The Franziskanerplatz market is a hub for artisanal gifts and Swiss treats. The festive Old Town and nearby peaks like Mt. Pilatus provide a stunning winter scene.
Basel
Often ranked among Europe's best Christmas destinations, Basel hosts superb markets at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. The city glows with decorated streets, traditional wooden chalets, and a strong focus on crafts and gastronomy.
The viral video serves as a powerful reminder of a time-honoured, if perilous, tradition, showcasing how Switzerland continues to blend deep-rooted customs with its world-famous festive charm.
