The Swiss National Day is 1st August. It is inspired by the mention of "early August" in the Federal Charter of 1291. It was first celebrated in Bern in 1891, marking the 600th anniversary of the charter. Based on that date, in 1907, the 600th anniversary was celebrated in Altdorf.

In 1941, the 650th anniversary was celebrated.

Following a public vote on 26 September 1993, it was made an official national holiday in 1994. It is celebrated each year, on August 1st, with town-wide Swiss lanterns parades, bonfires, hanging strings of Swiss flags and fireworks.