Advent for Families with Children

Christmas is an important time for families: these events and activities for children and their parents will make Advent in Zurich even more delightful.

Advent in Zurich offers fun for the whole family: from Christmas shows and fairytale afternoons to traditional candle dipping, there are plenty of events especially for children. Here are some ideas for festive activities the whole family can enjoy:

Families will find many more fun ideas for an exciting Advent season in the Children's Region in and around Zurich.

Find More Ideas

Illuminarium, Zürich

Illuminarium – Artistic Winter World

November 5 – December 30, 2026

Switzerland’s modern Christmas festival

St. Annahof Märlitram

The St. Nicholas Tram

In the magical St. Annahof Märlitram, St. Nicholas drives children through Zurich’s city center while they listen to Christmas stories told by an angel.

Candle Making in Zurich

November 14 – December 21, 2026

Candle making has been among Zurich's Advent traditions since 1969.

Zauberpark at Zurich Airport

November 18 – December 6, 2026

This Christmas festival treats visitors to live concerts, fascinating light installations, and mouth-watering culinary delights.

The Singing Christmas Tree, Werdmühleplatz

The Singing Christmas Tree

November 21 – December 23, 2026

This Christmas market enchants with its unique daily concerts.

Circus Conelli

Circus Conelli

November 21 – December 31, 2026

On the Bauschänzli in Zurich, acrobatics and comedy create a magical Christmas ambiance.

Christmas Procession, Zurich

Christmas Procession

November 29, 2026 at 5 pm

Santa Claus and his «Schmutzli» assistants hand out delicious treats during the parade along Bahnhofstrasse.

Samichlaus Schiff

Santa Claus Cruise

December 6, 2026

A short round trip on Lake Zurich with Santa Claus. On board, sweet treats such as crème brûlée and hot chocolate await.

Christmas Markets

Winter Wonderland

At the Christmas markets in the region, visitors cannot just buy gifts. There are also ice rinks, shows and other attractions for children to enjoy.

Räbechilbi Richterswil – Turnip Lantern Parade

November 14, 2026

For the annual “Räbechilbi” in Richterswil, around 30 tons of turnips (“Räben”) are transformed into countless artistically carved lanterns and displayed in the form of themed floats on a spectacular procession through the village.

Baden, Lichterwecke

“Liechterwecke”

Awakening the Light in Baden

The Christmas illuminations are only switched on when the children ring their little bells very loudly.

Ice Rinks in Zurich

In the forest, by the lake, or in the midst of a Christmas market: the various ice rinks in and around Zurich enchant ice-skating enthusiasts of all ages.

Ski Areas Near Zurich

Ski enthusiasts can get to these and many other ski areas quickly and easily from Zurich, and so do not need to dispense with skiing.

Toboggan Runs in Zurich

Providing that there is enough snow, toboggan fans can also race down the mountain on two runners in the region around Lake Zurich.

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