As Switzerland celebrates its National Day on August 1st, it’s a time to reflect on the nation’s rich history and its remarkable contributions to the world, including the beloved Eurovision Song Contest. For many, this day marks the beginning of Switzerland as a unified nation. But for Eurovision fans, it’s also a moment to celebrate Switzerland’s significant role in the contest’s history.
The Birth of a Nation: From the 1291 Confederation to the Federal State of 1848
The story of Switzerland began in 1291, with the legendary signing of the Federal Charter by representatives from the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. This pact was a mutual defense agreement that laid the foundation for a confederation of independent states, each with its own unique identity and culture. Fast forward to 1848, after the turmoil of the Sonderbund War, Switzerland transitioned from a loose confederation to a federal state, adopting a constitution that united the diverse cantons under a central government. Despite these changes, Switzerland retained its name, honoring the original canton of Schwyz, a testament to the deep respect for tradition and history.
Switzerland in Eurovision: A Legacy of Talent and Innovation
Switzerland’s Eurovision journey began with a bang in 1956, as the contest itself was born in Lugano. The country had the honor of hosting the very first Eurovision Song Contest, where Lys Assia won with the song “Refrain.” This victory not only marked the beginning of Switzerland’s Eurovision history but also set the stage for a long-standing tradition of showcasing exceptional talent.
An interesting fact often celebrated by Eurovision enthusiasts is that the contest is, in a sense, a Swiss invention. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), headquartered in Geneva, played a pivotal role in the creation of the Eurovision Song Contest. Marcel Bezençon, a Swiss journalist and the then-director of the EBU, is credited with the concept of the competition. Bezençon was inspired by Italy’s Sanremo Music Festival, a long-standing annual song competition. This inspiration led to the creation of Eurovision, aiming to bring European nations together through a shared love of music, fostering unity and cultural exchange. Thus, Eurovision was born, making it not just a significant cultural event but a symbol of European unity and cooperation, with strong Swiss roots.
Notable Swiss Eurovision Artists
Lys Assia
Lys Assia is a name synonymous with Eurovision history. Winning the inaugural contest in 1956, Assia’s “Refrain” captivated audiences with its classic charm and emotional delivery. Her victory in Lugano marked the beginning of a tradition that has grown into a global phenomenon. Assia’s influence extended beyond her win, as she continued to be a beloved figure in the Eurovision community, making appearances at numerous contests and events until her passing in 2018. Her timeless performances and gracious presence remain an integral part of Eurovision lore.
Celine Dion
Though Celine Dion hails from Canada, her win for Switzerland in 1988 with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi” remains a landmark moment in the contest’s history. Dion’s powerful vocals and emotive performance won the hearts of viewers across Europe, propelling her to international fame. Her recent comeback at the Paris Olympics, where she performed on the iconic Eiffel Tower, was a spectacular display of her enduring talent. This event was not just a performance but a global celebration of one of the most influential artists in music history.
DJ Bobo
Renowned for his high-energy dance tracks and electrifying stage presence, DJ Bobo has been a staple in the Swiss music scene since the late 1980s. His participation in Eurovision added a modern twist to Switzerland’s entries, with songs that combined catchy beats and dynamic choreography. Known for hits like “Chihuahua” and “Everybody,” DJ Bobo’s influence extends beyond Eurovision, with a successful career in dance and pop music worldwide.
Paola del Medico
Paola del Medico, known simply as Paola, is another notable figure from the Romandie region who made her mark on Eurovision. She represented Switzerland twice, in 1969 with “Bonjour, Bonjour” and in 1980 with “Cinéma,” the latter earning a respectable fourth place. Paola’s performances were characterized by her charming presence and melodic voice, which won her a significant fanbase across Europe. She later transitioned to a successful career in television, further cementing her status as a beloved Swiss entertainer.2
Peter, Sue & Marc
Peter, Sue & Marc were a Swiss pop group that represented Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest four times between 1971 and 1981. The group is remembered for their unique ability to sing in four different languages—English, French, German, and Italian—making them a symbol of Switzerland’s multilingual heritage. Their catchy tunes and vibrant performances, such as “Djambo, Djambo” and “Io senza te,” have left a lasting legacy in the hearts of Eurovision fans. Peter, Sue & Marc’s versatile musical style and engaging performances made them iconic figures in Swiss pop culture.
Luca Hänni
Luca Hänni, a talented singer-songwriter and dancer, brought fresh energy to Eurovision when he represented Switzerland in 2019 with the song “She Got Me.” Hänni’s performance was a perfect blend of catchy beats and captivating choreography, earning him fourth place—Switzerland’s best result since 1993. His dynamic stage presence and modern pop sound resonated with a wide audience, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in Swiss pop music.
Gjon’s Tears
Gjon’s Tears, the stage name of Gjon Muharremaj, represented Switzerland in 2021 with the poignant ballad “Tout l’Univers.” His heartfelt performance and powerful vocal delivery captivated audiences, securing him third place and marking one of Switzerland’s best results in recent years. Gjon’s unique voice and emotional expression brought a fresh, contemporary feel to the contest, earning widespread acclaim and recognition.
Nemo
One of the newer faces in the Eurovision landscape, Nemo represents the evolving nature of Swiss music. His innovative style, blending modern electronic beats with introspective lyrics, has made him a standout performer. Nemo’s approach to music reflects a broader trend in Swiss entries, showcasing the country’s ability to adapt and innovate in an ever-changing musical landscape.
A New Era for Swiss Eurovision: From Reto Peritz to Yves Schifferle
The transition from Reto Peritz to Yves Schifferle as the head of the Swiss Eurovision delegation marked a significant turning point for Switzerland in the contest. Under Schifferle’s leadership, Switzerland experienced a resurgence in Eurovision, culminating in the 2021 third-place finish with Gjon’s Tears. This period has been characterized by a renewed focus on selecting high-quality entries and a strategic approach to staging and presentation. Schifferle’s vision and direction have brought a fresh, competitive edge to Switzerland’s participation, signaling a promising new chapter in the country’s Eurovision journey.
Swiss National Day Traditions: Food and Festivities
To end it on a sweet and savory note, Swiss National Day is not just about fireworks and bonfires; it’s also a day filled with traditional foods that celebrate the country’s rich culinary heritage. On August 1st, families and friends gather to enjoy a variety of Swiss delicacies, often starting with a breakfast of Zopf/Tresse, a traditional Swiss braided bread, served with butter and honey.
As the day progresses, many Swiss enjoy grilled sausages, particularly Cervelat, which is considered the national sausage of Switzerland. These are often served with potato salad or a variety of breads and mustards. Raclette and Fondue are also popular choices, especially in the evening, where people gather around a hot pot of melted cheese, dipping bread, potatoes, and other accompaniments. Another favorite is Älplermagronen, a hearty dish of macaroni, potatoes, cheese, and cream, often served with applesauce.
For dessert, Meringue with double cream from Gruyères and Tirggel, a type of traditional honey biscuit, are popular. These sweets showcase the country’s diverse regional specialties and rich culinary traditions. The day is often accompanied by local wines and Swiss beers, highlighting the country’s diverse agricultural and culinary traditions.
As Switzerland celebrates its rich cultural heritage on this national day, it also honors its contributions to the Eurovision Song Contest. Who is your favorite Swiss Eurovision artist, and what performance do you think had the most impact? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let’s celebrate Switzerland’s unique musical legacy together.
