The Best Creative Events in Zurich
5 Unique Pop-up Events You Can’t Miss at Zurich Art Club: The Best Creative Events Zurich
Are you new in town and looking to meet people? Feeling under-inspired and searching for a fresh spark in your social life? Whatever the reason, you’ve come to the right place! Zurich Art Club has been busy cooking up a series of pop-up events - each more creative than the last and designed to be community-focused, helping you meet kindred-spirit Zürich locals. From crafting your own ceramic charms to painting the night away with cocktails in hand, our workshops aim to provide an informal, fun way to connect with like-minded individuals in the heart of Zürich. In this post, we’ll spotlight five upcoming (or recently held depending on when you find this article) pop-up events to inspire you, help you bond with others, and unleash your inner artist. So let’s dive into the wonderful world of Events in Zurich, where creativity and community go hand in hand!
Why Pop-Up Events Matter in Zurich’s Creative Scene
Zurich isn’t just a global financial hub; it’s also a hotbed of innovative art and culture. Over the past few years, countless pottery painting events in Zurich have cropped up, providing a chilled-out space for locals and newcomers alike to unwind, explore, and make connections beyond the usual work routine. At Zurich Art Club, we believe in using creativity as a catalyst for community. Our pop-up events pop up (excuse the pun) sporadically throughout the year, each one offering a unique twist on self-expression, skill-building, or simply having fun with strangers who might just become friends.
A Place to Meet & Make Stuff
Whether you’ve lived here for ages or you’ve just stepped off the plane, these Creative Events in Zurich are an excellent way to mingle. There’s no “right” or “wrong” approach in art, and Zurich Art Club aims for people to express themselves authentically without a ‘Strict’ teaching style - everyone is free to be themselves. That’s why our pop-ups or as we all call them ‘Events’ bring together an eclectic mix of people, from city workers seeking an after-hours creative release to travellers wanting to keep the creative juices flowing whilst here in Switzerland.
The Heart of Our Mission
Community: We’re all about bridging social gaps and making art accessible to everyone.
Creativity: Our events range from pottery to painting, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
(Keen for more classic clay-based experiences? Our töpferkurs Zurich are year-round pottery classes and great for all experience levels.)
Ceramic Charms: Wearable Art to Spark Conversations
Event Link: Check out our Ceramic Charms page for more details.
Mid-Week Magic—Two Evenings of Fun
If you’re partial to unique accessories and fancy a hands-on approach to jewellery, Ceramic Charms will be your cup of tea. Over two evenings, you’ll design, shape and paint teeny-tiny charms before transforming them into wearable pieces - think earrings, necklaces, or bracelets. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty (in the best way), then wear your one-of-a-kind creations long after the event is over.
Session One: Craft & Paint
You’ll spend time moulding clay into whatever shapes you fancy - hearts, leaves, symbols… get creative!
Paint them in your favourite colours or use subtle glazes for a more minimalist look.
Session Two: Final Touches & Assembly
Once the charms have been fired, you’ll finish decorating any last details.
We’ll provide jewellery findings so you can attach them to chains or earring hooks, turning your ceramic trinkets into fully wearable art.
What Makes It Special?
Time to Unwind: There’s no pressure to whip up a masterpiece. It’s all about enjoying the process and chit-chatting with fellow creatives whilst your hands are busy.
Portable Masterpieces: You’ll leave with actual wearable accessories - perfect conversation starters, personal keepsakes or gifts for a special someone.
Community Vibe: Expect plenty of laughter and mutual encouragement, especially when deciding how to paint or assemble your new charms.
(Charmed by the idea? Email helenw@zurichartclub.com for additional info or book your Ceramic Charms Workshop spot and let’s turn lumps of clay into tiny works of art!)
When: 02.05.25 and 23.05.25
How much? 175 CHF
Cocktails & Canvas: Paint Events Zurich with a Twist
Event Link: More Cocktails and Canvas information.
After-Work Drinks, But Make It Creative
If you’re bored of the same old stange at the local, this event offers a fresh alternative. Cocktails & Canvas is a social painting session where you can sip on a delicious cocktail (or an alcohol-free version if you prefer) and get those artistic juices flowing. We provide a 30×40 cm canvas, acrylic paints, and ample images to spark ideas. Feel free to replicate a famous painting or conjure something entirely from your imagination. You’ll have an artist on hand to help so you can make sure you get to make whats in your mind.
Time to Relax: The event lasts about 2.5 hours - enough space to put aside work stress and discover new colour schemes.
Instructor On-Call: Though it’s not a full-on guided workshop, a friendly art pro instructor is around if you need advice on mixing shades or brush technique.
Why Paint with a Cocktail in Hand?
Loosen Up: A small tipple can help you relax, though the real magic lies in the painting itself.
Meet New Friends: People wander around to see each other’s canvases, often striking up conversations.
Explore Bold Colours: Sometimes, a sip of something sweet can embolden you to try that neon pink or swirl your brush a bit more playfully.
Ready to swap the usual bar scene for a brush in one hand and a cocktail in the other?
Book your spot at Cocktails & Canvas and treat yourself to a relaxed, colourful evening. We’ll provide the canvas and the cocktails - just bring yourself!
When: Thursday 15 May 2025. 18:15-20:45
How much: 95 CHF
(If you prefer something sweeter, consider our Ceramic Cake Piping workshop for an equally fun evening!)
Nailed Identity: Beyond Standard Nail Art
Event Link: Something new and exciting! Our Nailed Identity pop-up event makes its debut, with amazing guest host Kosai Studios.
Showcasing the blend of self-expression and cultural exploration through bold, personalised nail art.
When Nails Become a Statement
You might initially think that nail art is purely about aesthetics. In truth, nails can be a powerful reflection of cultural heritage, personal identity, and social resistance. Enter Nailed Identity, a 3.5-hour workshop that dives into the deeper narratives behind this medium, blending hands-on design techniques with thought-provoking discussions.
Design Your Own Press-On Nails
Learn straightforward ways to paint or decorate nails so they stand out.
Experiment with patterns, prints, or mini statements that convey a cause or story - like an LGBTQ+ rainbow or a nod to your family background.
Explore Cultural & Historical Acceptance
Why do certain societies see nail art as edgy or rebellious?
Discover how it has shifted from niche subcultures to mainstream acceptance, revealing broader social and political undercurrents.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
The session flows in both German and English, so no one feels left out.
Why It’s a Must for Events in Zurich
Hands-On meets Heartfelt: You’ll create something tangible (a personalised set of nails) while engaging in real, meaningful dialogue.
Deep Social Bonding: Discussing personal identity can bring people closer, forging friendships beyond small talk.
Light Refreshments: Because creative conversations always flow better with a few snacks on hand.
Curious about turning nail art into a bold personal statement?
Join us for Nailed Identity Zürich pop-up and discover how press-on nails can spark cultural conversations. We’ll guide you every step of the way - no prior experience needed!
When: Saturday 17 May 2025. 14:00 - 17:30
How Much: 120 CHF
Ceramic Cake Piping: A Töpferkurs Zurich with a Delicious Twist
Event Link: Bakers at the ready, with our Ceramic Cake Piping course you can have your cake and eat it too.
Demonstrating the playful, faux-cake approach to pottery decoration, complete with vibrant hues.
Cake piping conjures up visions of sweet frosting, but in this quirky workshop, the sugary swirls are replaced by ceramic “icing.” You’ll apply them to jars or vases, using the same techniques pastry chefs use - minus the calories. Imagine swirling lovely patterns onto a plain ceramic surface, adding decorative flourishes that’ll make your piece look almost good enough to eat.
Event Highlights
Choose Your Base: Pick a vase, jar, or pot to decorate.
Playful Approach: Applying pastel or bold-coloured “icing” transforms functional ceramics into whimsical works of art.
Short & Sweet: Lasting about 1 hour and 45 minutes, this event suits busy bees who still crave hands-on fun.
Who Should Join?
Baking Enthusiasts: If you love swirling buttercream, you’ll adore swirling clay.
Beginner Pottery Fans: A gentle entry into clay artistry—no wheel-throwing or complicated glazes needed.
Team-Builders: This is a lighter version of a töpferkurs Zurich course, letting colleagues chat and collaborate without the pressure of large-scale projects.
Fancy the idea of ‘frosting’ a vase with ceramic icing?
Reserve your spot at our Ceramic Cake Piping workshop and treat yourself to a playful evening of sweet (and non-edible) creativity!
When: Thursday 22 May 2025. 18:00 - 19:45
How Much: 125 CHF
Big Coiling: Hand-Build Large Clay Pieces Over Two Sessions
Event Link: Want to take a Ceramic course near you, Big Coiling is a hands-on intro to our favourite medium, clay!
Go Big or Go Home with this Ceramic course near you!
If miniature charms or small jars aren’t quite your style, Big Coiling is your calling. Spread over two sessions, each three hours long, you’ll craft a larger piece—like a grand vase, spacious bowl, or sculptural planter. Coiling is a classic pottery technique, stacking “snakes” of clay to form large shapes. It’s meditative, surprisingly sturdy, and encourages a sense of scale.
First Session: Learn & Start Building
You’ll get the lowdown on coiling fundamentals - how to roll out uniform coils and attach them securely.
Begin shaping the base of your piece, mapping out its height and overall silhouette.
Second Session: Finish & Decorate
Refine your form, smoothing surfaces or adding unique textures.
Option to carve patterns, incorporate handles, or sculpt decorative additions.
Why This Workshop is big and beautiful.
Deep Focus: Over two days, you truly immerse yourself in clay, forging a sense of accomplishment.
Large-Scale Collaboration: Perfect for small teams wanting a group masterpiece. Everyone can help with layering coils or brainstorming the final shape.
Longer Firing Times: Because these pieces are bigger, it might take 4–8 weeks for the final firing. A test of patience - but oh so worth it.
Want to create something large and unforgettable with your own hands?
Sign up for Big Coiling and learn the art of coiling in a guided two-session workshop—perfect for anyone ready to go big on creativity!
When: 07.06.2025, and 08.06.2025,
How Much: 245 CHF
Conclusion: Book Your Spot & Bring a Friend
These five pop-up events at Zurich Art Club combine culture, community, and creativity in ways that conventional night outs can’t match. Whether you’re piping pseudo-icing onto a vase, painting a canvas with a cocktail in hand, or rolling up your sleeves for a coiling marathon, each workshop offers a welcoming space to connect with fresh faces and explore new modes of expression.
If you’re feeling inspired, why not gather a few friends or colleagues and make it a group outing? Whether you’re new to Zurich, craving a break from your usual routine, or simply eager to find your next hobby, we’ve got something for everyone.
Ready to reserve your spot? Get in touch or head directly to our events in Zürich page for more details on all the events mentioned. Don’t miss out on these Pop-up Events in Zurich that turn an average day into a memorable one. See you in the studio - paintbrush, clay coil, or nail polish in hand!
(Looking for something faster-paced instead? Check out our Zürich Art Courses to keep your creativity flowing in a single session.)
Helen and Elliot the Zurich Art Club founders can’t wait to welcome you soon!
