Schweizer Taschenmesser - An Unexpected Sunday Night

Had you ventured into Aikman’s this past Sunday, expecting a relaxed pint on a typical school night, you would have stumbled upon a delightful surprise in the basement. The St Andrews Swiss Society had transformed the space into "Schweizer Taschenmesser" — German for Swiss Army knife — a lively techno event that turned an ordinary Sunday evening into something unexpectedly enjoyable. Schweizer Taschenmesser was established a number of years ago by a previous president of the Swiss Society, and the event has continued on as a way to honour him and what he brought to the society. 

The event ran from 9pm to midnight, and I arrived on the earlier side, around 10:30pm. If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere — where you can sip your drink, chat with friends, and enjoy some techno in a casual setting — getting there early is key. When I arrived, there were only a few others around, and my friend and I easily found a cosy corner to sit, enjoy our beers, and listen to the various DJs.

The DJ booth was enrapturing even to those less familiar with techno or tech house. My companion, who is much more knowledgeable about all things music, was especially impressed by the variety of styles on display, including techno, jungle, and some DnB.

The event picked up around 11:30pm as more people began to pour in, eager to hit the dance floor. The music evolved to reflect the growing audience, mixing in some crowd-pleasers, including a few Britney Spears edits (my personal favourite). By then, most people were on their feet, and the night burst into a lively, energetic dance scene, transforming Aikman’s Cellar into an entirely different space.

The crowd was a vibrant mix of personalities, from seasoned attendees to curious newcomers, creating a diverse mix of people who were both students and non-students alike. This added a more well-rounded and inclusive feel to the event — a refreshing change from the typically student-dominated gatherings in St Andrews. 

While this wasn’t a typical Aikman’s Cellar experience, it was truly heartwarming to learn about the Swiss Society’s commitment to coming together to celebrate, dance, and enjoy themselves, and I had a lovely time being a part of that experience.

Photo: St Andrews Swiss Society