Zurich has a continental climate with four distinctive seasons. Spring runs from March to May — March can still be cold, but by April the city comes alive. Summer (June–August) brings temperatures up to the mid-30s Celsius, with Zurichers swimming in the lake and rivers, and the city's outdoor café culture in full swing. Autumn is mild and pleasant for walking; winter turns the city into a snow-covered version of itself, with the fountains frozen and icicles on the buildings.
Key events:
Sechseläuten (third Monday in April) — Zurich's spring festival, centred on the parade of the city guilds in historical costume through the old town, culminating in the burning of the Böögg, a cotton snowman stuffed with fireworks. The speed at which the Böögg's head explodes is said to predict the quality of the summer.
Street Parade (early August) — One of the world's largest electronic music events, with over a million people filling the lakefront and city streets. Expect noise, crowds, and a city completely taken over.
Knabenschiessen (second weekend in September) — A traditional shooting competition for 12–16-year-olds, centred on a three-day fair.
Züri Fäscht (every three years, early July) — The city's biggest popular festival, transforming the old town, the lake shore, and the Limmat into a three-day fairground.
Fasnacht (February–March) — Zurich's carnival, with street bands, masked balls, and processions.