Illustration of a snowy street at dusk with glowing string lights on houses and trees and a family and snowman by a fence (Lichterschwimmen)

Lichterschwimmen

Hundreds of tiny handmade lantern boats set sail down the River Limmat for an enchanting Advent tradition. Schoolchildren craft and launch the illuminated creations onto the water as a gesture of thanks to locals and visitors. Onlookers can watch the floating lights make their way along the river while enjoying hot punch and sweets.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

zuerich.com

When

Hours

6.00pm precisely.

Food & Drink

Zürich Tourism serves hot punch and something sweet for onlookers on Weinplatz.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Visitors seeking a charming advent tradition

Vibe

Atmospheric and festive

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Watch from along the route between Stadthausquai and the River Limmat to see the lantern boats set sail and float downstream.
  • Head to Weinplatz for the hot punch and something sweet served to onlookers.
  • Arrive in time to settle into a viewing spot before the lanterns set sail at the announced moment.
  • Keep in mind that the boats are launched by school pupils, who make them for the Advent event.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during Lichterschwimmen?

School pupils make hundreds of lantern boats and launch them onto the River Limmat from Stadthausquai.

Where can I watch the lanterns?

The boats set off from Stadthausquai and travel down the River Limmat; hot punch and something sweet are served for onlookers on Weinplatz.

Who makes and launches the lantern boats?

Pupils from schools in the Canton of Zurich make the lanterns and launch their creations.

Is food or drink available for visitors?

Zürich Tourism serves hot punch and something sweet for onlookers on Weinplatz.

Do I need a ticket or advance booking to attend?

The event information does not specify ticketing or booking arrangements.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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Contributors & Updates

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