In October 2023, the vibrant sisterhood between San Francisco and Zurich reached the remarkable milestone of its 20-year anniversary. To celebrate this enduring partnership, the Consulate General of Switzerland in San Francisco, along with various partners, presented a series of events to commemorate these two dynamic cities’ friendship and shared values. The festivities showcased the diverse facets of this intercity bond: from science and innovation to business, transportation, public health, gastronomy, and the arts, the jubilee celebrated all facets of the 20-year connection.
Swiss International Air Lines, Switzerland Tourism, and the Consulate General of Switzerland in San Francisco kicked off the festivities by bringing a touch of Zurich flair to the Castro Street Fair. This was followed by the exclusive culinary collaboration of Chef Joe Tiano from The St. Regis and Chef Michaela Frank from Zurich’s Kultur Lokal Rank, whom, together, crafted a special menu blending the flavors of both cities with a sustainable twist.
The celebrations also provided a context in which to hold meaningful conversations and exchanges: the San Francisco-Zurich Sister City Committee hosted an insightful panel discussion on drug policy, and Zurich’s Mayor Corine Mauch engaged in a poignant discussion with San Francisco’s Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, delving into the rich histories and dynamics of LGBTQ+ communities in the two cities.
SF-born and Zurich-based musician Erika Stucky held a series of mini concerts in the streets of the Castro, and in a quieter, although just as culturally-enriching event, literary enthusiasts were treated to a chat with the Swiss author Seraina Kobler during the Litquake Literary Festival, where she talked about her newest crime novel set in Zurich, Deep Dark Blue.
Swissnex shed light on sustainable living with their “Leading the Circular Revolution” event at Pier 17, showcasing Zurich’s global standing in circular living based on the 2022 Circular Cities Barometer released by Bloomberg.
Lastly, the iconic Zurich tram ran along the F-line from Fisherman’s Wharf to the Castro District, creating a moving connection throughout the celebration.
Click here to discover the full range of our 20th anniversary events and learn more about the special connection between San Francisco and Zurich.
Supported by Presence Switzerland, the City of Zurich, Zurich Tourism, The St. Regis San Francisco, Swiss International Air Lines, Lindt, and Pro Helvetia, this jubilee showcased the authentic connections and shared experiences defining the sister city partnership between San Francisco and Zurich.
