Welcome, dear readers, to our time machine. Today we’re rewinding to the Basel Carnival of 2023, a spectacle that lit up the winter gloom with its infectious energy, vibrant colors, and the sounds of laughter and music echoing through the streets.
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The Magic of Morgestraich
The Carnival kicked off with Morgestraich, that moment at 4 a.m. when Basel plunges into darkness, only to be illuminated by the magical glow of lanterns. This year was no different. Sleep was forgotten as the city danced to the rhythm of drums and piccolos, the music intertwining with the chill air to create a sense of enchantment. I could not attend the Morgenstreich of the Carnival in Basel in 2023. In all truth I was burnt out and tired from working for the Carnival of Basel. As with so many things, it is weird. So, I started to set up this website and its content, and maybe the calmness of that process helps me to get the strength to attend the next one. I am digressing, so, back to the topic of course 🙂
A Carousel of Colors and Sounds
Over the next three days, Basel was a living, breathing work of art. The streets were filled with Cliques (groups in traditional carnival costumes) parading around, their faces hidden behind masks that ranged from the hilarious to the downright eerie. Then there was the cacophony of the Guggenmusik bands, their off-key tunes strangely harmonious in the carnival atmosphere. After the time of the Corona Crisis, it was beautiful to see how the bebbis (basel-german traditional word for locals) and the visitors and tourists celebrated in harmony and without any restrictions. It was a welcomed and peaceful three days.
Fasnacht in the Time of Covid-19
One could not ignore the shadow of Covid-19 that still loomed over the world. But Basel found a way to celebrate safely. Masks took on a double role, both as a carnival tradition and as a precaution against the virus. Social distancing measures were in place, but the spirit of Fasnacht remained unbroken.
Satire and Social Commentary
The carnival was also a platform for satire and social commentary. Through the lanterns and costumes, the people of Basel took jabs at everything from local politics to global issues. One particularly memorable Clique paraded around in costumes representing global warming, their message clear amongst the merriment.
The Final Stroke
As Thursday morning dawned, the carnival came to a close with the Endstraich. The lanterns were extinguished, the music faded, and Basel returned to its usual rhythm, albeit with the lingering taste of Fasnacht still in the air.
So, dear readers, how was the Basel Carnival of 2023 for you? Did you participate or enjoy the spectacle from the sidelines? What was your favorite part of the carnival?
