550th anniversary

550th anniversary of the Basel Autumn Fair

In 2020/21, the Basel Autumn Fair celebrated its 550th anniversary. The Basel Autumn Fair can trace its origins back to 11 July 1471, when Emperor Frederik III granted the city of Basel the right to hold the event “in perpetuity”. During the anniversary year, information pillars on the history and traditions of the Basel Autumn Fair, among other things, promised a feast for the eyes and ears.

The Basel Autumn Fair 2021 celebrated its 550th anniversary and presented various nostalgic attractions as well as eight novelties. On the occasion of its 550th anniversary, the Basel Autumn Fair 2021 presented various nostalgic attractions, some of which are more than 40 years old. In its anniversary year, the Autumn Fair also purposely focused on traditions and the regional character.

Anniversary highlights and novelties

The "Wall of Death" presented a spectacular motorbike show at the Rosentalanlage. Nostalgic feelings were also guaranteed by a concert organ at the Rosentalanlage, the "Ski Lift" at Barfüsserplatz, the "Wellenflug" and a boat swing at Münsterplatz as well as the "Calypso" and the "Polyp" at Messeplatz.   

In the "Handwerkerdörfli" ("Craftsmen's Village") at Petersplatz and Hääfelimäärt, five stall holders demonstrated their skills in crafting glass, making ointments or using old printing techniques, with visitors invited to join in. And on Münsterplatz, four attractively designed information pillars presented background information and audio plays on the history and traditions of the Basel Autumn Fair.

In addition to the anniversary attractions, the Basel Autumn Fair featured seven new trade stands and one new fun ride this year, including the "Crazy Hotel", a five-storey family fun house with an obstacle course.