Kids often wear homemade costumes and masks. Many kids also bring sweets to hand out and confetti (Räppli) to throw.

Can older kids march too?

Yes, if they play an instrument: they join parents and friends in a small group (Schyssdräggziigli). Younger siblings sometimes ride along in a handcart.

There's food on Münsterplatz, and at the Kaserne grounds next to the float display.

How do we get across to Kleinbasel?

Walk from Münsterplatz to the Münster ferry landing. The ferry drops you on the Kleinbasel bank of the Rhine, where Fasnacht carries on too.

Fasnacht and Winter Traditions with Kids in Basel 2027, 1 of 5

UpcomingFestival

Basel Children's Fasnacht

Name: Basel Children's Fasnacht
Start: 2027-02-16
End: 2027-02-16
Location: Basel Old Town and Kleinbasel

When: Tue Feb 16, 2027
Ages: Not listed
Price: Free

FestivalAltstadt Grossbasel

Where

Altstadt Grossbasel, Basel Old Town and Kleinbasel

Setting

Outdoors

Plan for

2-3 hours

What you need to know

Carts carry only kids, as floats and carriages in the Fasnacht zones may only transport children
Monday's floats up close at the Kaserne grounds, with Guggenmusik concerts and food until Wednesday morning
Lanterns in daylight, with colorful pictures, though the joke verses are in Basel dialect

About

This is the day Basel's carnival puts kids at the center. Children too young to march with a clique or Guggenmusik come out with their parents in homemade costumes and masks, hand out sweets and throw confetti (Räppli). Older kids who already play an instrument form small groups with family and friends. It suits families who want to join in, not only watch from the curb.

Free

Dates & times

Tue 16 Feb 2027

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