Jura Independence Day
Jura Independence Day is a holiday observed in the Republic and Canton of Jura on the 23rd of June each year. Also known as Fête d’Indépendance in French, this day is a regional public holiday that celebrates Jura becoming a Swiss canton on June 23, 1979.
Switzerland (Common local holiday)For over 160 years, Jura was a part of the Canton of Bern and remained so until it decided to join the Swiss Confederation as the 26th Swiss Canton. This is a public holiday in Jura that is a day off for the general population. On this day, government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed.
The History of Jura Independence Day
For over eight centuries, Jura was a sovereign state in the Holy Roman Empire, but it decided to become a part of the Canton of Bern in 1815. The problem with this situation was that Jura was predominantly Catholic and spoke French, while Bern was mainly Protestant and spoke German.
This resulted in a very tense situation for all involved, so residents of Jura began to speak of separating from Bern during the 1940s. The Swiss people voted in favor of Jura seceding from Bern in 1978. Jura then joined the Swiss Confederation on June 23, 1979, becoming the 26th Swiss Canton.
Facts About the Canton of Jura
You can’t discuss Jura Independence Day without discussing Jura itself, so we’ve listed some of the facts that we learned about it below.
- Jura is just one of 26 Swiss Cantons.
- It has a total population of approximately 69,100 people.
- Jura is divided into the following districts: Delémont, Porrentruy, and Franches-Montagnes.
Observing Jura Independence Day
This day is a non-working day in the Canton of Jura, so many people have the day off to enjoy time with friends and family. All across Jura, there are also cultural events and festivals that people can take part in. People also enjoy parades and other such events.
Switzerland (Common local holiday)
