1. August Swiss National Day in Fort Myers
On a sunny Saturday morning, 1 August 2026, the board of the Swiss American Club of Southwest Florida gathered bright and early at The Landings Yacht Club Picnic Pointe in Fort Myers. This year’s Swiss National Day was extra special because, for once, it actually fell on 1 August.
The grills were fired up, Swiss flags proudly raised, ceiling fans set into motion to battle the Florida heat, and the speakers tested with Swiss music. Before long, members began arriving, greeting old friends, making new ones, and catching up on everything that had happened since the last gathering.
Shortly after 11:00 a.m., our President, Vicki, called everyone together. She welcomed members, guests, and honorary members, introduced the board, and the speech of Swiss President Guy Parmelin to the Swiss Abroad was played, followed by the Swiss national anthem. Vicki also highlighted upcoming club events and presented the Bowling Wanderpokal to Hanspeter Christ, who proudly rolled his way to victory at the June bowling tournament.
Meanwhile, the unmistakable sound (and irresistible aroma) of St. Galler Olma Bratwurst sizzling on the grill became impossible to ignore. Soon everyone was happily enjoying authentic Bratwurst served with fresh Bürli and, of course, Thomy mustard—the unofficial taste of every Swiss National Day celebration.
As always, it didn’t take long before the dessert table became the day’s most popular attraction.
A big thank you goes to everyone who organized, grilled, baked, decorated, cleaned up, and helped make the day another wonderful celebration of Swiss traditions and friendship.
We look forward to seeing everyone again in December for our Klaushock!
Text by Vicki Burkhard and Photos by Vicki Burkhard
