Berner Zibelemärit
Berner Zibelemärit is held on November 25. A festival of tradition and onions. This event in the third decade of the month November is annual. Help us
The Berner Zibelemärit (Onion Market) is a traditional fair with the character of a folk festival, which transforms the old town of Bern into a colorful spectacle every year on the last Monday in November. Officially, the market starts at 6:00 a.m., but the first business is often done as early as 4:00 a.m., when early risers and lovers of the best onion products arrive.
Origin and history: The exact historical roots of the Zibelemärit are not clearly documented, which makes the market all the more mysterious. Some sources suggest that it dates back to the 15th century, while others point to the 19th century. The market evolved from the Martinimesse, a medieval autumn market that can be traced back to the late Middle Ages.
Onions in all shapes and colors: The heart of the Zibelemärit is the artfully woven onion braids, wreaths and figures. These colorful creations, often combined with colorful flowers or cereals, are not only a feast for the eyes, but also a symbol of the region's close connection to agriculture. In addition to onions in all variations, textiles, jewelry, ceramics and toys are also on offer - the market has something for every taste.
An event for the whole of Switzerland: the Zibelemärit attracts thousands of visitors from all over Switzerland and neighboring countries year after year. The first guests often arrive in the early hours of the morning to secure the most beautiful onion braids and immerse themselves in the hustle and bustle. With its unmistakable mix of tradition and lively market activity, the Zibelemärit is an integral part of the pre-Christmas period and is listed as one of Switzerland's living traditions.
Unique atmosphere: What makes the Zibelemärit so special is its unique atmosphere. While the air smells of onions and the market stalls are colorfully illuminated, cheerful voices and the laughter of visitors can be heard as they meander through the narrow streets. For many, the Zibelemärit is not just a market, but a piece of home that evokes memories of times gone by.
Have you ever admired the art of an onion wreath? Or felt the early morning mist as you stroll through the awakening city? Bern's Zibelemärit offers all this - and much more.
Similar holidays and events, festivals and interesting facts
Zurich Insurance Group Day on November 16 (Founded as a Marine Reinsurer);
Immaculate Conception on December 8 (public holiday in several countries, a holy day of obligation in others);
The Escalade Festival in Geneva, Switzerland on December 12 (in honor of the victory of the Protestant Republic over the troops of the Duke);
St. Stephen's Day on December 26 (public holiday in Alsace, Austria, Andorra, Catalonia, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovakia and Switzerland);
Restoration Day in Geneva, Switzerland on December 31 (Known in French as 'fête de la Restauration de la République', the holiday commemorates the re-establishment of Geneva as a republic on this day in 1813);
Berchtold's Day or Berchtoldstag on January 2 (Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the Alsace);
The second day of New Year on January 2 (a holiday in Kazakhstan, Macedonia, Mauritius, Montenegro, New Zealand, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Ukraine. New Year Holiday [Albania, Scotland], if it is a Sunday, the day moves to January 3)