Every August 1st Swiss nationals, expatriates and fans of Switzerland gather to celebrate the birth of the scenic nation. Landlocked high in the European Alps, the welcoming country of Switzerland is home to myriads of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and sweeping meadow vistas. August 3rd several hundred Swiss and Swiss enthusiasts gathered at Newark’s Swiss Park to indulge in Swiss culture, food and comradery.
The lively event provided a full day experience of all things Swiss. Vendor booths offered Swiss wine and whiskey tasting. Fondue pots, Swiss books and music, traditional clothes and other wares from Switzerland were sold. Bratwurst, spaetzle, pickled cabbage, and other Swiss delicacies were served.
Heidi Campini, brightly clad in the red and white colors of the Swiss flag, proudly shared tales of her youth in Switzerland. “We celebrate August 1st with bonfires and fireworks at parties on the lake or in the mountains.”
Yodeling, alpenhorn blowing, rock climbing, Tochino music and other Swiss pastimes were practiced and shared at the festival. The Golden Gate Boys’ Choir carried the flags from each Swiss region in a parade through the event grounds. The well shaded outdoor venue offered a comfortable grassy environment with ample seating.
In 1291 Austria was threatening invasion of the Alps. Three original cantons or state-like regions in the Alps united to fight the Austrians. One German speaking canton, one heavily French influenced and one closer to Italy united to defend their mountain territory. The coalition successfully thwarted the Austrian invasion. The union became the country of Switzerland, now comprising 26 Alpen cantons.
Switzerland has a long history of dairy farming and milk product exports like cheese and chocolate. After the California Gold Rush of 1849, many Swiss farmers emigrated to California. The lush central valley, and temperate pastures in the lower Sierras were reminiscent of home and ideal spots to relocate the Swiss farming tradition.
Swiss clubs exist all over the state to preserve Swiss identity and culture for the descendants of California’s Swiss Dairy farmers. The Stanislaus County Swiss Club, located in Jory’s Grove, was founded in 1921. The founder’s grandson, Phillip Jory and his wife attend the festive Swiss National event in Newark each year. “It’s just a wonderful day.”
The Swiss Heritage Mobile Museum shared the rich history of the mountain nation. Switzerland Tourism’s booth showcased the country’s vibrant communities and offered travel options. The Swiss model train exhibit, William Tell crossbow game and a cornhole competition kept kids amused. Swiss Clubs from across the state sold flags, t-shirts and displayed captivating antique photos of Swiss family dairy farms in California.
Debra Marty from Fremont was in attendance representing the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Northern California. She brought 10 of the fabled canines, known for their life saving water keg collars and devoted companionship. “Our 10 year old, Geeta, has been petted all day long here, she loves it!”
Newark’s Swiss Park, located at Mowry Ave and Alpenrose Court, rests on the site of a former Swiss dairy farm. The property has a large chalet style banquet hall, bar and grille, and the rentable picnic area where the Swiss National Day event takes place.
