SBB to celebrate 125th anniversary in 2027: Key events and ticket offers

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) has unveiled a programme of activities to celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2027. Here's everything that's planned so far:

Connecting Switzerland since 1902

Known globally for its punctuality and great connections, SBB is something of a national treasure in Switzerland. Founded in 1902, the company brought together several crucial rail routes across the country and has since contributed to “social cohesion, economic development and the quality of life throughout the country,” an SBB press release states.

To mark the milestone, the rail company wants to host a celebration “for all of Switzerland”, thanking “customers, the public, politicians, partners and generations of employees who have made the railway possible and shaped it for 125 years.”

What does the SBB 125th anniversary programme include?

SBB is promising a plethora of special offers, events and experiences for the more than 1,43 million customers who use Swiss public transport each day.

Here are some of the events that SBB has announced so far:

• SBB Anniversary Trip (January 28): Customers can enter for a chance to win tickets to two train rides that will commemorate the inaugural SBB journey in 1902 (from Zurich to Olten and Lausanne to Olten). Find out how to enter the ticket competition here.
• Zurich HB Light Show (March 6-14): Whether it’s after your commute or on your way out for dinner, anyone heading through Zurich Main Station in the evening can watch a free light and sound show tracing the history of SBB.
• SBB Future Workshop (March 24 - October 10): The SBB Future Workshop will take place at the Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) in Lucerne, focusing on the future of Swiss mobility and rail innovation.
• Limmattal Marshalling Yard Railshow (May 29-30): Train enthusiasts can watch a parade of vintage and modern rolling stock, alongside rare, behind-the-scenes access to one of Switzerland's largest freight yards.
• Ticino Cultural Trail (July 24 - September 4): Various rail installations will be on show between Bellinzona and Locarno, accessible by foot, train or bike.
• Lausanne Station Light Show (September 30 - October 3): Another light show will be on display, this time at Lausanne train station.
• SBB Trail (February - December): Lasting most of the year, the SBB Trail will run at Geneva and Basel SBB train stations, offering a historical and interactive scavenger hunt for families.

SBB launches 125 Years Pass discount

Lastly, for passengers hunting for a Swiss travel deal, SBB has teased a special discounted day pass, the 125 Years Pass, with more information set to be released at the beginning of 2027.