24 hours before the opening match of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, the Host City Bern officially launched its 27-day summer football festival. Against the impressive backdrop of the Swiss Federal Palace and within sight of the Giant wheel, more than 200 children paraded into the Fan Zone Bundesplatz, proudly waving the flags of the 16 participating nations – a colourful and emotional start to the festivities.
Mayor Mareike Kruit and Grand Council President Edith Siegenthaler officially opened the Fan Zone with inspiring words, followed by a musical firework: Guillaume Hoarau, Soukey and the iconic Bernese band Chlyklass brought energy, rhythm, and the first goosebump moments to the crowd.
On the very first day, the Berner Ballzauber drew more than 4,000 visitors – a promising prelude to what is sure to be an unforgettable football celebration.
