8 Important Events in Switzerland for May 2024
As spring blossoms and warmer days approach, Switzerland gears up for a month packed with significant changes and events. Whether it’s about driving fines, banking adjustments, or exciting new flights, here are eight key happenings to keep an eye on:
1. Traffic Violations Cross Borders
Starting May 1, 2024, Swiss drivers caught speeding in Germany and vice versa will face penalties regardless of their home country. Thanks to a new agreement, Swiss authorities will cooperate with their German counterparts in enforcing fines. For instance, Swiss drivers nabbed for speeding in Germany with fines exceeding 70 euros will be obligated to pay up, even upon returning to Switzerland. Conversely, German motorists facing fines over 80 francs in Switzerland will also be accountable.
2. Decline in Swiss Bank Interest Rates
With the Swiss franc’s strength and inflation stabilizing, several Swiss banks have opted to lower interest rates on accounts. Effective May 1, Appenzeller Kantonalbank will reduce rates by 0.2 percentage points. Similarly, other banks like Obwaldner Kantonalbank and Nidwaldener Kantonalbank are adjusting rates based on account balances. Even online banks like Neon are following suit, reflecting a broader trend in the banking sector.
3. Cannabis Trial in Canton Zurich
Following the lead of other Swiss cities, Canton Zurich launches its cannabis trial on May 2. This trial allows two-thirds of volunteers to purchase cannabis from authorized shops, while the remainder continues buying from the black market. Lasting five years and costing 1.5 million francs, this trial aims to gather valuable data on cannabis regulation.
4. RailCoaster Launch between Switzerland and EuropaPark
Adventure enthusiasts can rejoice as a new direct rail service between Switzerland and EuropaPark debuts on May 18. This service offers thrill-seekers a convenient journey from Basel SBB to the theme park, inclusive of a return trip. Dubbed the “RailCoaster,” this service promises excitement and ease of access to one of Europe’s most popular attractions.
5. SBB Worker Wage Increase
In May 2024, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) announces a 1 percent average salary increase for its employees. Additionally, SBB distributed a one-time inflation bonus earlier in the year, reflecting its commitment to its workforce.
6. SWISS Introduces Direct Flights to Seoul
SWISS announces the commencement of direct flights from Zurich to Seoul starting May 7, offering travelers a new destination to explore. This expansion follows recent route additions like Zurich-Washington DC, with Zurich-Toronto flights expected to launch soon.
7. Labour Day and Ascension Holiday
May brings two public holidays to Switzerland: Labour Day on May 1 and Ascension Day on May 9. These holidays vary in observance across cantons but generally provide residents with time off to celebrate or relax.
8. End of Spring School Holidays
For students in Graubünden, Schwyz, Uri, Valais (German-speaking part), and Zurich, May marks the end of spring break. By May 13, students will return to school, marking the transition from holiday mode to academic focus.
