Celebrations without Fireworks was formed in January 2017, following various protests from the community. A total of 306 signatures were collected and presented to the municipal council of Saanen on February 20 for further political action. Ban supporters include fireworks opponents Silke Frohloff, Yvonne Gisin, and Niki Rommel, as well as other local residents and guests.

Animal welfare organisations and veterinarians confirm that light and sound explosions during nocturnal hours contribute to animal suffering. The group claims that it produces unnecessary air pollution as well, and feels a ban would contribute to Gstaad’s “Come up, Slow down” philosophy, showing the region’s commitment to animal protection and peaceful relaxation.

“It’s also an attraction for guests and locals, when on 31 December all the church bells in the Saanenland ring in the New Year,” says the group. “Many people stand on their balconies or go into the village to hear the concert.”

According to Celebrations without Fireworks, bans have been successfully implemented in areas with guest profiles similar to Gstaad, such as the German island of Sylt.

“We are convinced that our world-famous 5-star hotels wont lose a single guest if they stop having fireworks,” insists the group.