Alcohol is banned at Christmas in all Swiss prisons.
Tamedia/Urs Jaudas
In Switzerland, even behind bars, Christmas is synonymous with festive moments and sharing. Each prison establishment has its own customs, but they all have one goal in common: to offer inmates a break from normalcy during the holidays. Here is an overview of the celebrations organized in Swiss prisons.
A moment of sharing in the prisons of Zug
In Zug prison, Christmas begins with the preparation of Grittibänze (dough men) and biscuits, made by the prisoners themselves. On Christmas Eve, a party brings together inmates, prison staff and pastoral care. For the meal, a table is set with raclette and various accompaniments. The visiting room is decorated with a tree to create a festive atmosphere.
Pizza and phone calls in Nidwalden
In Stans prison, Christmas evening is marked by a non-denominational celebration. Each inmate receives a pizza accompanied by a sweet drink, as well as telephone credit as a gift to call their loved ones. Videoconferences are also extended, and family visits can last longer.
Christmas stories in Bern
At Hindelbank, the Christmas meal consists of braised meat, potato gratin, assorted vegetables, Christmas cookies and non-alcoholic punch. In the evening, inmates read Christmas stories to each other and participate in a games evening.
Concerts and gifts in Valais
Valais prisons organize a Christmas concert for inmates, who also receive gift boxes and sweets. Relatives benefit from extended visiting hours, and the common rooms are carefully decorated. Special meals are prepared for December 24 and 25.
Elaborate menus and celebrations in Zurich
In Zurich establishments, Christmas meals last until December 26. On Christmas Eve, inmates enjoy Mostbröckli (dried piece of beef or cow meat) and soft cheese, while on Christmas Day, homemade minced meat pancakes are served with duchess apples. On December 26, the Kaiserschmarrn (a kind of thick pancake), accompanied by fruit compote, serves as dessert.
Festive activities in Witzwil (BE) and Solothurn
In Witzwil, after a prayer service with pastors, inmates enjoy a festive meal and receive a small gift from a local foundation.
In Solothurn prison, each residential group prepares its own Christmas menu. The rooms are decorated with festive decorations for the occasion.
Tournaments and movie nights in Eastern Switzerland
In prisons in eastern Switzerland, inmates take part in festive activities such as movie nights and table football tournaments. The menus, available in classic, vegetarian and adapted to religious diets, include hamburgers, beef roulades and cordon bleu depending on the day.
Themed meals in Graubünden
In Cazis, in Graubünden, the Christmas menu includes chicken breast with curry sauce, roast veal shoulder, and beef Stroganoff accompanied by Schupfnudeln (small, long pasta made from potatoes).
A moment of normality for inmates
Despite the absence of alcohol, which is omnipresent in these celebrations, Swiss prisons try to create a warm atmosphere for the inmates. Between festive meals, friendly activities and moments of sharing, the objective is clear: to bring a little normality to those who spend the holidays behind bars.
