Fasnacht Annual Carnival in Basel, Switzerland

By: Denise Morrison

Basel is perhaps known as much for its pharmaceutical firms as its art (think Art Basel and its spin-off Art Basel Miami Beach.) But in February of each year, winter is ushered out and spring welcomed at the largest carnival celebration in Switzerland, known as Fasnacht.

On the first (Monday) morning of Fasnacht, in the darkness of 4 a.m., participants gather in the narrow streets for 'Morgenstreich'. Large, colorfully-painted lanterns illuminate the parade route and vendors serve traditional food items, such as "Mehlsuppe" (soup made of flour and onion); great for warding off the early morning winter chill. Later the crowds will enjoy vast quantities of beer, onion tarts, cheese pies and sausages.

Parade participants include many local cliques, groups and guilds who spend practically the entire year planning for the celebration. And, it shows. Taking place over three days, the outlandish masks and colorful costumes never cease to amaze. The ambiance is friendly and fun -- as opposed to drunken brawling. In addition to the carnival processions featuring flute playing and much drumming, numerous informal get-togethers in restaurants (where politically themed rhymes and jokes are told) as well as parties round out the fun.

Children play a big role in Fasnacht, too, with Tuesday being their special day for parading. If you are not careful, you will find yourself doused in confetti by one or more of the young mischievous Waagis. Waagis are ubiquitous characters at Fasnacht, and these bushy-haired rascals essentially represent an obnoxious version of Basel's neighbor - the Alsatian.