Colors of Basel - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Basel is a cozy and attractive city that has won the hearts of millions of travelers. Most tourists visit the city during various carnivals and festivals. The majority of these national holidays of Basel can be proud of their long history. One of the most famous festivals is the Carnival of Basel (the Lenten Carnival), which is celebrated by the locals during the first seven days of Lent. On this time of a year all main streets and squares of the city turn into bright and lively markets. Colorful national costumes and traditional wooden shoes have traditionally become the most popular good during the days of the carnival. Both residents of the city and tourists dress up in unusual costumes, wigs and paper hats, and go for a walk along the streets of Basel. Anyone, who wants to take part in the carnival, should definitely stock up on paper confetti and sweets, which are traditionally given to children. On the last day of the carnival Basel hosts a grand parade. In the evening everyone gathers in the main square in order to watch the magnificent fireworks and listen to performances of the local bands.

Baselworld exhibition, which takes place in the city annually, is a no less important event in the life of Basel. On this exhibition you can see the works of the best Swiss watch companies. The event involves about two thousand manufacturers of watches. Every year this large-scale exhibition attracts approximately one hundred thousand people. In February the city becomes a true Mecca for coin collectors as during several days Basel hosts the International Festival of coins and banknotes. Tourists who are not fond of coins will also find much interesting if they visit this event –the exhibition halls and galleries offer visitors to look at various old coins, many of which are true museum pieces.

The end of October is the time for a large gastronomic fair, on which the local companies show off their products. Travellers really enjoy purchasing delicious Swiss cheese, dairy products and sweets from street vendors at very competitive rates. If you’re an art lover, the best time to visit Basel is June, when the city hosts the International Exhibition of Art. In the galleries of the exhibition you will find priceless works of Swiss artists. In addition to old and beautiful paintings, during the festival you can see the work of contemporary artists. It is worth noting that sweets remain one of the symbols of the city. The local chefs cook them in accordance to ancient recipes. Home cakes, biscuits and chocolates in the shape of a lotus will become a perfect memorable gift. You can buy them in the numerous pavilions and confectioneries of the city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The cultural life of Basel is rich for various cultural events and celebrations. Annually, this city host around 1000 concerts, jazz festivals, and performances of the world-famous artists. Art lovers from all over the world have a favorite direction - Art Basel, one of the most prestigious international art exhibitions. Around 90,000 masters, owners of galleries, museum directors, private collectors and other art connoisseurs gather at Art Basel, which insiders also call "the annual family meeting in the world of art". During this spectacular event, you will establish the communication with art and artists, which will provide you with inspiration and joy. In the days of the Art Basel itself is filled with a special atmosphere, supported by interesting events that take place throughout the city.

If you are coming to Basel at the end of July, make sure to attend the ImFluss musical festival. This unique musical event lasts almost for three weeks in the open air on a small stage located directly on the Rhine. Each year, the festival attracts interesting musical groups and performers from different countries. October 26 - November 3 takes place the BaselWineFair, which is one of the largest wine fairs in Switzerland. Annually winemakers, wholesalers, importers, hotel and restaurant complex employees, wine tasters and wine lovers gather here.

On October 26 - November 10 local people celebrate the Basel Autumn Fair, which begins 14 days before the day of St. Martin and lasts two weeks. At this time the city turns into a colorful fair, where hundreds of stands with products of art crafts, tents with snacks and pavilions for shows, as well as an exhibition and sale of autumn goods and wines are presented. Attractions, street theater performances, entertainment for children, sports and other entertainment activities will unfold in seven squares in the center of Basel during the Basel Autumn Fair.