HolidayList
📅 holiday

Brother Klaus Festival

Friday, September 25, 2026

— days to go

Brother Klaus Festival is a public holiday in the Swiss Canton of Obwalden. Although Brother Klaus, or Nicholas of Flue, is the patron saint of Switzerland according to Roman Catholicism, it is only a holiday in Obwalden where he lived. In 2026, Brother Klaus Festival falls on Friday 25 September. The holiday will be on Saturday 25 September in 2027. Nicholas of Flue was a man of diverse pursuits, to say the least. He was in the military until age 37 and attained to the rank of captain. He is said to have fought with his sword in the one hand and his rosary clutched in the other. Yet, in 1481, he gave timely counsel that helped prevent a Swiss civil war among some of the cantons. “Brother Klaus”, as he is now generally known, was also a councilman in his canton, a farmer, a mystic, a hermit, and one who is said to have seen visions from God. For example, he reported seeing a vision of a horse eating a lily and interpreted it as meaning his worldly life was devouring his spiritual life. In response, he retired to become a hermit and focus on the “contemplative life”. IN 1947, Brother Klaus was declared a Catholic saint by Pope Pius XII, making him the only sainted person hailing from Switzerland. Churches and the people of Obwalden Canton take time to honour his memory every 25 September.

History

Yet, in 1481, he gave timely counsel that helped prevent a Swiss civil war among some of the cantons This observance marks an important moment in history, observed annually as a day of reflection and commemoration.

How It's Celebrated

Brother Klaus Festival is a public holiday in the Swiss Canton of Obwalden. Although Brother Klaus, or Nicholas of Flue, is the patron saint of Switzerland according to Roman Catholicism, it is only a holiday in Obwalden where he lived. In 2026, Brother Klaus Festival falls on Friday 25 September. T

Other Years

2026 Fri
25 Sep
2027 Sat
25 Sep
2028 Mon
25 Sep
2025 Thu
25 Sep
2024 Wed
25 Sep

Countries

🇨🇭 CH

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