The Beginnings of Tradition
The Carnival at Basel or "Basel Fasnacht" has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The largest carnival in Switzerland was influenced by guilds, which is why military elements are still incorporated today. Every year, the carnival starts at 4am the Monday following Ash Wednesday, and lasts for exactly three days
("The History of the Carnival in Basel" 2019). The Carnival beginning after Ash Wednesday is specific to Protestants, and is said to have given them a second Reformation (Armstrong 1984, 54).
Experience
Just before 4am, the every light in the city is out, and the people wait in complete darkness. Everything is quiet until you hear the drums and high-pitched pipes coming down the streets. The players are lit by lanterns and are dressed in colorful and elaborate costumes.
Tradition is important for the food as well. The Fasnacht food consists of bland flour soup and onion pie. Maybe not the most delicious options, but it is customary for carnival goers (Gold 1982, 28). Shops also sell various treats such as sweet crackers with icing called "Fasnachtkiechli" and "Faschtewajie," which are pretzel pastries ("The History of the Carnival in Basel" 2019).
Cultural Identity
This carnival is a tradition of the community that has been passed on from generation to generation. The customs and rituals of the festival contribute to Basel's history and cultural identity. These customs are meaningful and consist of shared materials and verbal expressions (Sims 2011, 70). The elements of many European festivals, like Basel, involve the suspension of ordinary routines and schedules. This also includes a reversal of roles, such as a gender, where men dress as women, and vice versa. The disguises, like masks, allow for the role reversal to be a period of relaxation. They are free from criticism and judgement (Gold 1982, 30).
For the cultural traditions of Basel Facnacht to continue, there is a relationship between church, government, and community that needs to thrive. Organization is crucial for this event. The continuation of this carnival is essential to the Basel community, as it brings a sense of togetherness and cultural pride. The public displays seen the carnival are open to symbolic interpretation, but the true meanings lie within the members of Basel (Bettleheim 1991).
