A Toast to Heroes: The Advent Calendar 2024 of Dolder Grand * Zurich

As December approaches, The Dolder Grand, Zurich’s iconic five-star retreat, invites its guests into an extraordinary world of art, history, and introspection

This year, the hotel’s Advent calendar has transformed into a thought-provoking masterpiece by internationally renowned artist Jani Leinonen. Titled “A Toast to Our Heroes,” this immersive installation celebrates acts of bravery, resilience, and humanity that shaped history during the month of December.

The Advent Calendar as a Stage for Reflection

Leinonen, celebrated for his pop art style that blends vibrant imagery with profound social critique, has created an oversized Advent calendar that commands attention in both scale and meaning. Each of its 24 “windows” unveils a pivotal event or person whose impact resonates far beyond their moment in time. By spotlighting these heroes and their stories, the installation encourages viewers to reflect on social values and perhaps even awaken their own inner hero.

“The art is not merely decorative; it is a call to action,” Leinonen shares. “It’s an opportunity to remind ourselves of courage and compassion—qualities we all have the potential to embody, especially during the festive season.”

A Glimpse at the Heroes

Each day of the Advent calendar reveals a unique story of courage. Among these:

1 December 1955: Rosa Parks, the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” takes center stage as the calendar’s first hero. Her refusal to relinquish her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, became a defining moment in the fight against racial injustice.

14 December 2008: A daring act of protest by an Iraqi journalist, who threw his shoes at the US President during a press conference, shines a light on resistance and the cost of war.

24 December 1914: The “Christmas Truce” during World War I, where German, British, and French soldiers laid down their weapons to share a fleeting moment of peace and camaraderie, reminds us of humanity’s capacity for unity even in the darkest times.

Other days commemorate equally profound acts, such as the temporary opening of the Berlin Wall during the Christmas season of 1963, symbolizing hope and connection amidst division.

Art Meets Luxury

This collaboration between The Dolder Grand and Jani Leinonen is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to redefining luxury experiences. Beyond its Michelin-starred dining and breathtaking views over Lake Zurich, the Dolder Grand continues to position itself as a cultural and artistic hub, offering guests more than indulgence—offering perspective.

The Advent calendar installation blends seamlessly with the hotel’s existing dedication to art. Its collection already features works by renowned artists like Salvador Dalí and Takashi Murakami. Now, Leinonen’s interactive piece not only enhances the visual landscape but also deepens the emotional and intellectual engagement of visitors.

A Festive Celebration of Heroes

“A Toast to Our Heroes” is a celebration of human spirit, an invitation to learn from the past, and a call to embody the values of the season—peace, courage, and kindness. Whether you are a guest at The Dolder Grand or an art enthusiast visiting Zurich, this Advent calendar is an unmissable highlight, turning the countdown to Christmas into a meaningful journey through history.

So, this December, as you sip champagne under the glittering chandeliers of The Dolder Grand, take a moment to lift your glass to these heroes and their enduring legacies. It’s a luxurious yet profoundly humbling reminder that the holiday season is as much about giving back as it is about celebrating.

For those who cherish art, history, and meaningful travel, The Dolder Grand has ensured that the 2024 festive season will leave an indelible mark—not just on their memories but on their hearts.

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