Viral video shows people lighting Chrmas tree with real candles in an ode to a horic Swiss tradition | Destination-of-the-week News

Did you know that traditionally, Swiss people used to celebrate Chrmas with real candles? Precisely what was seen in a video circulating on social media. The undated snippet shows a tall, moss-coloured Chrmas tree decorated with candles being lit in an ode to the festival.
According to the Instagram handle that shared the video, “Most people have never seen a Chrmas tradition this bold, this ancient, or this dangerous. Long before electricity exed, European families lit their Chrmas trees with real candles. Over time, almost every country replaced the practice with safer electric lights to avoid fires, but Switzerland preserved one of the oldest holiday rituals in Europe.”
Named Wealth, the social media page further claims that “select Swiss churches still mark Chrmas using the ‘candle-lit tree lighting’, performing “exactly as it was centuries ago. It’s one of the last living Chrmas traditions that still captures the original atmosphere, beauty, and risk of the holiday as it was celebrated hundreds of years ago.”
A traditional Chrmas
In olden days,  no classic Chrmas celebration would be complete without this ritual. According to a 2017 article on Swissinfo.ch, “Candles not only illuminate trees in family homes but also in many churches. Even though open flames are banned in public places where more than 100 people can gather.”
The ban preceded at least 1000 incidents of fire caused candles in a year, the report claimed. Although it’s still not confirmed whether the ban remains in place. Many people in small congregations comprising fewer than 100 people still celebrate Chrmas, as shown in the video, lighting candles on their tree.
The article further states, “If a study concluded at Bern University in 2006 is to be believed, the Swiss will continue putting real candles on their trees for some time to come.”
In another article The Seattle Times, “candles on the Chrmas tree are the classic way to celebrate the Holiday.”
Beyond this candle-lit tradition, Chrmas in Switzerland reflects a deep connection to regional customs, warmth, and community. Advent calendars and wreaths mark the countdown to Chrmas, while picturesque Chrmas markets—known as Weihnachtsmarkte—fill town squares with handmade crafts, mulled wine, gingerbread, and festive music.Story continues below this ad
Families often gather on Chrmas Eve for a cosy meal, which may include fondue, roast meats, or biscuits like mailänderli and zimtsterne. In many regions, children look forward to a visit from Samichlaus (St. Nicholas) on December 6, who arrives with a donkey and hands out nuts, chocolates, and mandarins. Snow-covered villages, midnight masses, and chalets decorated with soft lights all add to the magical ambience of Chrmas.

Top 3 places to mark Chrmas celebrations in Switzerland
Zurich
Switzerland’s largest city transforms into a festive wonderland with its dazzling “Lucy” Chrmas and the iconic singing Chrmas tree at Werdmuhleplatz. Lake Zurich’s backdrop and multiple themed markets make the city one of the most atmospheric places to experience Swiss Chrmas traditions.
Lucerne
With its medieval architecture, snow-dusted bridges, and lakeside setting, Lucerne offers a magical Chrmas vibe. The Franziskanerplatz market is a highlight, featuring artisanal gifts, Swiss treats, and live performances. The Festive Old Town and Mt. Pilatus or Mt. Rigi near add a scenic winter backdrop perfect for holiday travellers.
Basel
Often ranked among Europe’s best Chrmas destinations, Basel hosts two of the country’s finest markets at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. The city glows with beautifully decorated streets, traditional wooden chalets, and a strong focus on crafts and gastronomy.