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WHERE: Basel, Switzerland
WHEN: from 10th to 12th March 2025
An “out of the ordinary” Carnival halfway between spontaneous event and organized event.
In these parts they call it Frau Fasnacht, but it is universally known as the Basel Carnival.
An event that, by now, is part of the city’s cultural and folkloristic identity.
An event that, by its own uniqueness, has been recognized by UNESCO, the intangible heritage of humanity!
And the typical Carnival of Basel is also in the period of the festivities that, unlike the rest of Europe, take place after Shrove Tuesday. Exactly, the first Monday following Ash Wednesday!
The Morgestraich marks the beginning of the Basel Carnival, with a striking march, before dawn. Then, it’s all a succession of events, and celebrations until Wednesday, with the great parade that closes the event.
The scenographies are really suggestive and wonderful. The frame is truly unique with Basel, which magically transforms itself, giving a striking appearance to the event. This is the best opportunity to discover a truly fascinating city.
PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET
For three days, the Basel carnival throngs the streets of the city center. You can easily walk around the streets of the center and attend the event.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
Appointment on Monday 10th March, 04:00, for the suggestive Morgestraich. It is a suggestive march in which small illuminated lanterns are transported overhead. A march illuminated by two hundred lanterns, in absolute darkness. Really wonderful!
The lanterns carried by them are much larger Click, that is, organized groups. These objects, exceeding three meters in height, and have external writings that show curiosities related to the previous Carnival. From Monday evening until Wednesday morning, they are all on display at the Cathedral Square. Entertainment from afar, and close, assured.
Among the most anticipated events there is, of course, the Procession. This is the traditional parade in which past masked figures parade past 12000, on foot and on board wagons. The latter are always set up following a specific theme. Expect a good amount of confetti and sometimes even food and drinks in mini portion.
Tuesday, however, is dedicated to children or, as they are called here, the “biggins”. Parades and fun for children.
BASEL CARNIVAL 2025 PROGRAM
Here, below, the official timetable of the event.
Monday 10th February, At 04:00, Morgestraich.
13:30, Procession.
From the evening awaits you Laternenausstellung, the fantastic display of the Clique lanterns, at Münsterplatz.
Tuesday 11th, from 10:00 until the afternoon, the Children’s Carnival.
Throughout the day, there is the Laternenausstellung at Piazza della Cattedrale.
At 18:30, procession of musicians from Clarantrasse.
From the 19:30 to the 23:30, the Guggenkonzert near the main squares of the city; itinerant music bands perform on the large stages set up.
Wednesday 12th, up to 12:00 about, last appointment with the exposure of the lanterns.
At 13:30, second, and last appointment with the Procession at the streets of Basel.
From midnight, appointment with the Gässle, the highlight, and most awaited, of the Basel Carnival. Until the 04 in the morning, a big parade animates the city with masked groups and single participants. Shortly before the 04:00, Gugge and Clique, accompanied by a march, officially close the event, giving appointment to the next year!
WHERE TO SLEEP
During the period of the Basel Carnival, finding available facilities in the central area could be very problematic. It is advisable to book well in advance, at least a couple of months before the event.
STAY @ Basel SBB, although not central, it is one of the recommended facilities. An excellent B & B, just a short walk to 5 minutes from the SBB train station, and 10 minutes from the Zoological Gardens.
STAY @ Basel SBB offers free WiFi, a garden, a 24-hour reception 24 on 24 and 2 private parking spaces, subject to a surcharge.
STAY @ Basel SBB offers a shared lounge area and comfortably furnished rooms with private or shared bathrooms.
There is also a fully equipped shared kitchen on site.
The property has a summer terrace and offers free public transport connections to and from Basel Airport, which is 14 km away. Prices starting from about 115€ per night, for a double room. Info and reservations from this link.
*all information contained herein, including timetables and prices, is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered official. All names and trademarks herein belong to their respective owners.
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