Basler Fasnacht (Basel Carnival) is Switzerland’s largest and most famous Carnival celebration, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Held annually on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, the festival begins in darkness at 4:00 a.m. with the magical Morgenstreich, when the city lights are extinguished and illuminated lanterns parade through the streets to the sound of piccolos and drums. For three days, Basel transforms into a whirlwind of masked cliques, satirical floats, marching bands, and confetti-covered streets, all infused with sharp political humor and artistic flair. Blending tradition, music, and irreverent wit, the Basel Fasnacht is a captivating celebration of creativity and local pride—often called “the three most beautiful days of the year.”
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Basel or a Switzerland route—we’ll plan Morgenstreich (pre-dawn), the Cortège parades, Schnitzelbank evenings, smart vantage points & tram closures, and a walkable stay in the Altstadt.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 23–25 February 2026 (Monday–Wednesday).
• Starts with Morgestraich at 04:00 on Monday; ends exactly 72 hours later at 04:00 on Thursday — see Official page.
• Afternoon Cortège parades on Monday & Wednesday (from ~13:30) · Tuesday focuses on Children’s Fasnacht (afternoon) & evening Guggenkonzert — program on Dates & program.
• Lantern exhibition on Münsterplatz from Monday evening (lanterns lit after dark) through Wednesday morning — details on Official page.
• The exact timetable publishes annually — check the official Program nearer the date.
LOCATION
• Basel Old Town & city center ring routes (inner/outer Cortège) — overview on the Official page.
• Handy reference: Münsterplatz, 4051 Basel — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free street event (no central tickets). Support the carnival by buying the official badge (Blaggedde) — info & prices on the Fasnachts-Comité.
• No grandstands; choose a spot along the ring routes or at the squares indicated on the Program.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Expect very large crowds at Morgestraich and afternoon parades; arrive early and keep sidewalks clear — structure and tips on the Official page.
• Public transport: use Basel trams/buses (BVB) and SBB trains for access — plan via BVB network · SBB timetable.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Switzerland route that includes the Basler Fasnacht at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.