Näfelser Fahrt is a historical memorial event held annually in the canton of Glarus, Switzerland. It commemorates the Battle of Näfels, which took place on April 9, 1388, during the conflicts between the Swiss Confederates and the Habsburgs.

When is Näfelser Fahrt?

The Näfelser Fahrt is held on the first Thursday of April every year.

The following is the list of Näfelser Fahrt from 2020 to 2039.

The History of Näfelser Fahrt?

The Battle of Näfels was fought on April 9, 1388 between the forces of Glarus and the Old Swiss Confederacy against the Habsburg dynasty, which sought to regain control over rebellious territories.

Despite being vastly outnumbered (the Swiss defenders were only a few hundred strong), the Glarner forces achieved a decisive victory over thousands of Habsburg troops. This victory secured Glarus's independence and contributed significantly to the consolidation and strength of the early Swiss Confederation.

In 1389, just one year after the battle, the Landsgemeinde (the traditional people's assembly of Glarus) decreed that an annual pilgrimage and memorial service should be held to remember the fallen and give thanks for the victory. The term "Fahrt" means "journey" or "procession", reflecting the nature of the commemorative walk.

Näfelser Fahrt is the oldest continuously observed public commemoration in Switzerland. It represents the spirit of resistance, and independence that helped shape Swiss national identity.