It's that time again when Basel celebrates the arrival of autumn with its fall festival. Herbstmesse will celebrate over 550 years (this lively festival started in 1471) with celebrations taking place in Barfüsserplatz, Messeplatz, Münsterplatz, Peterplatz, Rosentalanlage, Kasernenareal and Claraplatz. Each area has a different feel, unique rides, delicious food, but all are bustling with activity.
Herbstmesse will run from the 28th of October through the 12th of November at most of the locations mentioned above. Petersplatz and Häägelimäärt will run until the 14th of November. The entire city and neighboring countries will be celebrating as the autumn months unfold.
The festival will officially be underway once the bells toll at Martinskirche at 12:00 on October 28th. This tradition will ensue thanks to Florian von Bidder will welcome the autumn fair starting this year. While the rides can be costly, don't forget to visit the fair the first hour of opening, as the rides are free for this short period of time.
Hours:
Each day the fairs in Barfüsserplatz, Münsterplatz, Kasernenareal and Hallenmesse open from
12:00 - 22:00 Sunday through Thursday and 12:00 - 23:00 on Friday and Saturday.
Messeplatz and Rosentalanlage are open from 12:00 - 22:00 on Sunday through Thursday and
12:00 - 23:00 on Friday and Saturday.
Petersplatz and Hääfelimäärt are open daily from 11:00 to 20:00.
Transportation:
To access any of the locations, the best option is via public transportation. To view the tram and bus schedules, please visit the official website Herbstmesse.
Dates and Locations:
Herbstmesse will kick-off on Saturday, October 28 and will conclude on Sunday, November 12.
For families, the best locations to visit with children are: Münsterplatz, Barfüsserplatz and Peterplatz. Older children will love the energy produced at Kasernenareal and Messeplatz. With rides, balloons, food and easy access, these areas are not to be missed.
Tips:
If you have children and are longing for a couple of hours of "adult time," don't miss the Robi-Spiel located at Petersplatz. Your children will enjoy hours of hands-on activities under the supervision of their staff. As your children play, you can stroll through Petersplatz, grab a bit to eat and enjoy the fresh autumn air. We did this each year when our children were young and they loved it! So did we!
Prepare yourself for crowds and know this event typically attracts visitors from the neighboring countries. If you are traveling to the fair with small children, please keep them in close proximity. With the crowds, it is easy to get separated from little ones.
For all of the details pertaining to this event, please visit the official website. Have fun and enjoy this remarkable time of the year!