Just back from Zurich watching the fireworks. I caught the 9:20 train from Kloten and then walked down Bahnhoffstrasse to the shores of the lake with hundreds of others. Near the lake, the road was pedestrianised and loads of stands set up with food and fairground type attractions. The fireworks were due to start at 10:30 and so we had quite a long wait, but the evening was warm and pleasant. In the run up to the fireworks they played some classical music over the PA – one piece was the Pomp and Circumstance march by Elgar, complete with the Land of Hope and Glory piece normally played at the last night of the proms. It seemed quite amusing that they were playing a tune which makes me feel patriotic about my country! I am sure there were lots of British people there enjoying it.
The fireworks started bang on the dot of 10:30 (as one would expect of the Swiss) and were again accompanied by classical music. I think I heard that the music was live, but I have no idea – it came over the PA and I was certainly not aware of there being a band in the vicinity of where I was standing. For 26 minutes solidly, we were treated to some quite spectacular fireworks, launched from the lake. I had a really good view.
When that was over, I fought my way back up to the main railway station in time for the 11:20 train. Some people must have got on the train at the previous station, which I presume is near the lake somewhere. I have never been down that way yet. Anyway, the train was absolutely jammed for a few stops, but I did get a seat for most of the journey home.
I believe the fireworks tomorrow night are to pop music. Not sure if I will be bothered to go down again, but tonight was an experience!
Upon my return to the apartment tonight there was an email from Annette saying that she and Ben would like to come and visit from 22nd to 29th August, so I have booked their flights tonight. I am really looking forward to spending some time with them, showing them around Zurich a bit.