Saturday, 2 May 2026, 9am to 5pm, admission via the main and visitors’ entrances until 4pm (visitors still in the queue at 4pm are not guaranteed entry). Free admission.
People aged 16 and over, and unaccompanied children under 16, will be subject to an ID check and must present official identification to security staff.
Please allow sufficient time for security checks. There may be queues at peak times.
Programme highlights
Show in the Council of States chamber
A mime artist will sweep the audience into a world of wonder and laughter – poetic, playful and brimming with surprises.
Performances at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3.30pm
Ask the President
President of the National Council Pierre-André Page will answer questions from children. Be bold – the microphone is yours!
In the National Council Chamber at 1pm
Yes, no, abstain! How laws are made
Our guides explain Parliament's tasks in language suitable for children. Fun voting simulation included.
In the National Council Chambers at 11am and 2.30pm
Explore the Parliament Building
Discover the lobby, the domed hall, the National Council and the Council of States chambers for yourself. Our guides will be happy to tell you about the history and architecture of the building.
Squash bar at Café Vallotton
Children receive a free glass of squash at the bar in the former reading room.
These and
other attractions await you and your children in the Parliament Building. Come and visit us – we're looking forward to welcoming you and seeing lots of happy, smiling children!
Heads up! We are once again looking for inquisitive
junior reporters (aged 12–16) from all language regions to take part in our open day on 2 May 2026.
Your mission:
- Record interviews and videos or take photos during your visit – whether with visitors, staff or the President of the National Council, let your imagination run wild!
- Your contributions will appear on the
Swiss Parliament's social media channels. We'll give you plenty of support.
How to apply:
Send us a short video (max. 15MB) by 11 April 2026 to
junior@parl.admin.ch or on
079 354 13 88 and tell us why you want to take part!
Your prize:
- An exciting day as a reporter at Parliament
- A small thank-you gift
- A look behind the scenes of politics!
Audio tour of the Federal Palace: Download the free app to your smartphone and take a self-guided tour of the Parliament Building.
Apple and Android
(Source: Monika Flückiger/Parliamentary Services
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Christoph Stutz
Responsible for political education
Parliamentary Services, CH-3003 Bern
Tel: +41 58 322 91 73
Christoph.stutz@parl.admin.ch
Valeria Bürdel
Tour guide
Parliamentary Services, CH-3003 Bern
Tel: +41 58 322 90 22
Valeria.buerdel@parl.admin.ch