This fabulous event occurs within the Easter season and is one of the most spectacular festivals in Basel. Fastnacht occurs in many cities across Switzerland, but the one in Basel is considered by many to be the best. A few weeks before the event actually begins people begin selling Fastnacht pins. You may hear youths yelling at what seems to be no one, it is possible they are selling Fastnacht pins. These pins help contribute to the Fastnacht committee and come in three different shades, which means three different prices. Every year a new design is created so the pins are different from year to year. The pins can be bought from various venues if you feel uncomfortable asking one of the local youths for one. The Basel Tourism office would know more about that. (There is a Basel Tourism office in the main train station. Next to the Migros is a newspaper stand, if you take a right from there you will come upon a small room that serves as a Basel Tourism station.)
Fastnacht in Basel starts at 4am. Large lantern are carried throughout the streets while traditional music is played. The participants wear masks and costumes. The lanterns are made every year and no lantern can be reused. This march is kind of like a unique parade. The leader of each group often takes them down side streets: just by motioning to the crowd they can part a group of people to make way. Many people go just to see the beginning and then leave so don't be discouraged if someone is in your way.
The following three days are full of activities. The Basel Tourist office will have a schedule of activities. For the most part, conffeti is tossed around wildly and bands play off beat music.
This is an amazing event. If it gets too crazy, you can always go on a side trip, which is one of the best things about Basel.