A morning with Santa and connecting in celebration with fellow Swiss families is good for the all too common Winter Blues. The following walk through Covent Garden with your crafted Räbeliechtli stimulate physical health and mental awareness.

Samichlaus & Räbeliechtli in the Swiss Church London
Sunday, 1st December 2024

The holiday season often brings feelings of nostalgia and longing for those who have left their homeland behind. For Swiss families living in London, the festive period offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between cultures and maintain a strong connection to their Swiss heritage.

The Swiss Church London’s annual Samichlaus Event provides a heartwarming way to immerse oneself in Swiss traditions and create lasting memories. By participating in these activities, children can develop a deeper sense of belonging to the Swiss community, even while growing up in the UK.

• A visit from Samichlaus: Children can meet the Samichlaus (or Père Noël / Santa) in the Santa Grotto and share their Christmas wishes.
• Räbeliechtli lantern making: Families can craft traditional Swiss lanterns and join a festive walk through Covent Garden, illuminating the streets with their handmade lanterns.
• A Christmas story and carol singing: Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with readings of the Christmas story in Swiss German and English, followed by a heartwarming carol singalong around the piano.
• Delicious food and drinks: Enjoy a variety of hot food, drinks, and cakes to warm up and satisfy your appetite.

Beyond the festive fun, the event also promotes wellbeing. Engaging in cultural activities can reduce stress, improve mental health, and strengthen social bonds. By attending the Swiss Church’s event, families can enjoy quality time together, connect with other Swiss expatriates, and experience the joy of shared traditions.

As the holiday season approaches, let us embrace the opportunity to cherish our heritage, nurture our wellbeing, and create lasting memories. By attending the Swiss Church London’s Samichlaus event, we can celebrate the beauty of both Swiss and British cultures.

Participation in this delightful event is completely free, making it a wonderful opportunity for families of all backgrounds to experience Swiss traditions. To register your attendance and ensure enough supplies for everyone, simply email the Swiss Church London at info@swisschurchlondon.org.uk

Donations to the Swiss Church are warmly welcomed (cash or card) to support their continued work within the community. This free event also relies on the generosity of volunteers, so if you’d like to lend a helping hand and contribute to the festive spirit, don’t hesitate to reach out! Volunteering not only benefits the community but can also provide personal satisfaction, enhance social skills, and offer opportunities for professional development.Swiss National Day London 2024 offers a wonderful chance to connect with fellow Swiss compatriots living in London. Immerse your children in their heritage and create lasting memories together!

The SBS: Supporting Swiss Nationals in London

The Swiss Benevolent Society (SBS) is committed to supporting Swiss nationals in London and fostering a sense of community. While not directly involved in organising the Samichlaus event at the Swiss Church, the SBS encourages all Swiss families to attend this heartwarming celebration of Swiss traditions and connect with your fellow Swiss compatriots. The SBS is also here to offer support and resources to Swiss people in London facing challenges. Learn more about our services on our website: Request Support Today

We wish you a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and Swiss traditions!

The Swiss Benevolent Society