The tradition of the Basel Autumn Fair stretches back over a long, exciting history that starts in the 15th century, with an emperor, a pope and a committed mayor. Old traditions such as the ringing in or the Hääfelimäärt are still integral parts of the Basel Autumn Fair today.

History of the Basel Autumn Fair Traditions of the Basel Autumn Fair

Foto der Schulbox

Basel Autumn Fair for Schools

The teaching materials “Experience the Basel Autumn Fair” provide a wealth of ideas on how the customs of the Basel Autumn Fair can be integrated into lessons in Basel kindergartens and primary schools in a playful way. A set of ideas includes suggestions for building a amusement park ride and recipes for typical Autumn Fair specialties. The educational project was carried out by the Canton of Basel-Stadt to mark the anniversary of the Autumn Fair.

All content is available digitally (in German): www.herbstmesse-erleben.ch

Farbig gestaltete Infopoints zur Geschichte und den Traditionen der Basler Herbstmesse.

Audio plays on the Basel Autumn Fair

On a total of four information pillars and the accompanying audio plays, you will learn all kinds of historical and curious facts about Switzerland's oldest and largest amusement fair. We wish you a stimulating read!

History of the Münsterplatz

History of the Barfüsserplatz

History of the Petersplatz

History of Kleinbasel

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.

More about the 550th anniversary