Month : February and March
Place : Basel, Switzerland
Famous For : Carnival
Attractions : Fasnacht, Street Music Parties, Dncing, Singing, Drinking and Dressing up like a Clown
The Basel Carnival is one of the most eagerly awaited festivities in Europe. Tagged as the biggest carnival in Switzerland, the Carnival of Basel takes place annually between February and March in Basel, Switzerland. The popularity recognition of this carnival doesn"t end up in Switzerland. In fact, it has been listed as one of the top fifty local festivities in Europe. Basel's Carnival, also known as Basel Fasnacht, is amongst the top festivals in the world.
The Basler Fasnacht starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday. The so called Morgestraich kicks off the opening at precisely 4:00"am. The carnival lasts for exactly 72 hours and, therefore, ends on Thursday morning at 4:00"am. During the celebration time, the old town of Basel is ruled by the the participants, called Fasnachtler, where they run loose in the streets and restaurants. Basler Fasnacht is often referred to as die drey scheenschte Daag, which means "the three most beautiful days". Basel's Carnival is also reputed as the only Protestant carnival in the world. There are three days of dancing, singing, drinking and dressing up like a clown. The party kicks off with a bonfire and then the cobbled streets of Basel are awash with partiers in carnival costumes and cartoonish masks. Highlights include the Dance of Death (Totentaz) and the Masquerade (Nummenschanz) performances, as well as the street music performed by drummers, flute players and other percussionists.
