The organisers of Zurich’s “Polarzauber” Christmas market have reversed their controversial decision to go completely cashless.

After widespread criticism, cash will once again be accepted alongside card and mobile payments at the market’s stalls, according to 20 Minuten.

The original plan to allow only card and smartphone payments had sparked dissatisfaction among visitors and stallholders.

Vendors faced fines of up to 500 Swiss francs if they accepted cash despite the rule, and many regular patrons felt excluded by the policy.

“You spoke, we listened,”

the organisers wrote on the market’s website, announcing the change.

The decision comes after several days of public debate, highlighting the strong attachment many people still have to cash as a payment method.

Traditional stall operators, like Don Giovanni, which had previously made nearly half of its sales in cash, had expressed concern about the impact on their businesses, according to Blick.

Visitors also voiced frustration, arguing that cash represents an important personal freedom.

By reinstating cash payments, the market organisers aim to balance modern digital convenience with inclusivity for all attendees.

Vendors can now accept cash alongside the “common digital payment methods,” ensuring no visitor is left out.

This episode reflects broader discussions in Switzerland and beyond about the role of cash in everyday transactions, even as digital payments become increasingly common.

Featured image credit: Freepik’s Pikaso AI