In Basel, autumn means more than just falling leaves and pumpkin pies.
When the weather gets cooler and the days shorter, Baslers look forward to the Herbstmesse (Autumn Fair).
The oldest and biggest fair in Switzerland, the Herbstmesse is one of Basel’s traditions that the locals – young and old – thoroughly enjoy. It’s also the biggest fair between Milan and Stuttgart, and attracts more than a million visitors every year.
The fair is usually held in various places in the old town as well as in Kleinbasel, with different attractions to cater for different age groups.
Those with young children to entertain head to Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz for the carousel, Ferris wheel, bumper cars and other kiddy-friendly rides. Kasernenplatz and Messeplatz are where you’ll find teenagers and thrill-seeking adults queueing up for the roller coaster, the haunted house, and other heart-stopping rides. If you’re feeling peckish, have a mosey around Petersplatz; you’ll find crêpes, raclette, bratwurst, cotton candy, apple fritters, cheese tarts, chocolate-covered fruit, churros, noodles… the list goes on. It isn’t just food you’ll find at Petersplatz – there are hundreds of stalls selling primarily artisan and craftware. Even if you don’t end up buying anything, it’s worth just having a look.
It ain’t autumn in Basel until the you see the Ferris wheel up in Münsterplatz.
The fair lasts for more than two weeks, so vendors come in trailers.
This kid’s obviously gone off on one of the rides – who cares if it’s cold?
Kids love the Herbstmesse.
Kiddy rides at Münsterplatz.
Artisan and craft stalls in Petersplatz…
And of course, the food….
By night, Herbstmesse is a treat for the eyes…
That’s all for now.
Toodles!
Perfecting Asam Pedas 