Official Basel Fasnacht 2026 Dates and Schedule

For official information, visit Kunstmuseum Basel.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Basel Tourism.

Monday afternoon features the first Cortège parade starting at 1:30 PM. Large groups called Cliques march with floats and lanterns. They follow specific routes through the historic city center. You can see traditional costumes and hear the sound of flutes and drums. The energy in the city remains high throughout the entire day.

Tuesday, February 24, focuses on children and musical performances. Families participate in smaller parades during the afternoon hours. Evening brings the Gugge music concerts to the city squares. These brass bands play loud, joyful music for thousands of visitors. It is a more relaxed day compared to the busy Monday schedule.

The final Cortège takes place on Wednesday afternoon, February 25. This parade follows the same schedule as the Monday event. The festival officially ends at 4:00 AM on Thursday morning. This 72-hour period is known locally as the "three finest days." Plan your trip early to experience this incredible cultural festival in Basel.

Exploring the Basel Fasnacht Parade Route

The Basel Fasnacht 2026 parade route covers the city's main districts. The marchers move through both Grossbasel and Kleinbasel during the event. Two large loops form the primary path for the Cortège. You can find detailed maps at the official Basel Tourism office. The route includes major landmarks like Barfüsserplatz and Marktplatz.

The inner loop circles through the narrow streets of the Old Town. This area offers the most traditional atmosphere for spectators. You can watch the groups march past historic guild houses. The sounds of the drums echo loudly against the old stone walls. Arrive early to secure a standing spot on the sidewalk.

The outer loop crosses the Mittlere Brücke to reach Kleinbasel. This bridge provides a stunning view of the parade against the river. Marchers cross the water several times during the afternoon. The wide streets in Kleinbasel allow for larger crowds to gather. It is often easier to move around in this part of the city.

Public transport stops near the route are usually very crowded. Most trams stop running through the city center during the parades. You should plan to walk between different viewing locations. The route is clearly marked with barriers and signs for safety. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets easily.

Essential Traditions and Festival Etiquette

Buying a carnival badge, or Blaggedde, is a vital tradition. These badges help fund the various carnival groups and parades. They come in copper, silver, gold, and jewelry versions. Prices usually range from 10 to 100 Swiss Francs. Wearing a badge shows your support for the local community.

Visitors must follow specific rules regarding confetti, known as Räppli. You should never throw confetti at people without costumes. Only the masked participants are allowed to throw it at spectators. Be prepared to find confetti in your clothes for weeks. It is a sign that you are participating in the fun. Avoid wearing expensive or delicate clothing during the parades.

Food plays a major role in the three-day celebration. Try the traditional Mehlsuppe, which is a thick flour soup. Most restaurants also serve Zwiebelwähe, a delicious onion tart. These warm dishes are perfect for the cold February weather. You can find these specialties at food stalls throughout the city center.

Respect the performers and their intricate masks, called Larven. These masks are handmade and represent specific local themes. Never touch a participant's mask or costume during the parade. The groups spend months practicing their music and building their floats. This dedication makes the new events in Basel truly special.

Planning Your Visit to Basel in 2026

Booking your hotel early is the most important step. Many rooms are reserved a year in advance for Fasnacht. Look for new Basel hotel openings to find modern options. Staying near the city center allows you to reach Morgenstreich easily. Some visitors stay in nearby towns and take early trains.

The Swiss rail system, SBB CFF FFS, runs extra trains for the event. Special "Morgenstreich trains" arrive in Basel before 4:00 AM on Monday. These trains connect Basel to Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne. Using public transport is much better than driving into the city. Most parking garages will be full or closed during the festival.

February weather in Switzerland is usually very cold and damp. Temperatures often hover near freezing during the early morning hours. You should wear several layers of warm, waterproof clothing. Thermal underwear and thick socks are highly recommended for spectators. Standing still on the pavement can make your feet very cold.

Consider purchasing a BaselCard for your stay in the city. This card offers free public transport and museum discounts. It is a great way to save money while exploring. Use your free time between parades to visit the local museums. The city remains vibrant and busy throughout the entire week.