Basler Herbstmesse, or the Basel Autumn Fair in English, is not your average funfair. This is a 554-year-old celebration, stitched into the cultural DNA of Basel. Every year from late October to mid-November, the city sheds its everyday calm and morphs into a glowing network of rides, food stalls, markets, and centuries-old traditions that refuse to go out of style. It’s the oldest and largest fair of its kind in Switzerland, and one of the rare European fairs that proudly occupies multiple city squares.
Basler Herbstmesse records more than 1 million visitors a year
Basel in autumn is politely cool, somewhere between 5 and 15˚C. Sticky coating of honeydew on the Rhine promenade gives way to rustling carpets of fallen linden leaves. Riverside buvettes pack up, even the bravest swimmers retire their river-floating habits, and umbrellas begin their seasonal comeback. But a little rain here and there won’t drive the crowd indoors. The gravitational pull of the Basel fall fair is so strong that wet weather cannot ruin the fun.
Every year, the number of visitors to Basler Herbstmesse consistently lands at over 1 million, the majority of them arriving from Switzerland, and neighboring France and Germany.
Whether they’re hunting down classic carousels, heart-stopping thrill rides, warm magenbrot, or simply the irresistible mix of medieval charm and modern spectacle, Basel’s Herbstmesse, with 460 stalls and businesses, guarantees sensory overload for visitors of every age.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Basler Herbstmesse, one of the most beloved Basel events and one of Europe’s largest inner-city fairs. Buckle up, Basel’s autumn magic is about to sweep you in.
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What is the Herbstmesse Basel?
The Herbstmesse Basel is a citywide festival that transforms Basel into an enormous open-air playground.
For two weeks in autumn, the city’s historic squares burst into life with traditional craft markets, thrill attractions (rollercoasters, carousels, bumper cars, and other rides), and the irresistible aromas drifting from food stalls (think molten raclette, roasted almonds, gingerbread-like magenbrot, and Basel’s beloved striped candy, mässmogge).
Basel Autumn Fair is a unique fusion of medieval tradition and modern funfair energy, the meeting point of nostalgia, excitement, and Swiss tradition that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Basler Herbstmesse history
If you’re wondering how old the Basler Herbstmesse really is, brace yourself: this fair predates cotton candy, electricity, and even Switzerland as a federal state. Its story begins in the Middle Ages!
The origins of the Basel Autumn Fair reach back to the mid-15th century, when Pope Pius II himself issued a recommendation for holding a fair to help revive the struggling city of Basel, stricken by wars, famine, and diseases.
The papal letter sat quietly in a court drawer until July 1471, when Emperor Frederick III of the House of Habsburg granted Basel the right to host a yearly fair (Jahrmarkt or Chilbi), guaranteeing this privilege “for all time”.
What began on 27 October 1471, as a medieval marketplace with merchants, jugglers, wrestlers, fortune tellers, bearded ladies, and even prostitutes (ways to make visitors’ pockets lighter are numerous after all), has since evolved into a celebration of craftsmanship, gastronomy, and entertainment. Over the centuries, the fair became a cornerstone of Basel’s social life that reaffirmed the city’s economic and cultural importance in the region.
Today, while the neon lights and high-tech rides are unmistakably modern (it was the 20th century when electricity enabled technically sophisticated attractions), the Herbstmesse never lost its historical soul.
The fair’s uninterrupted continuity through wars, political crises, and shifting eras is a point of immense local pride. Herbstmesse Basel is a rare European medieval fair that never vanished, which is why, for many Swiss families, returning to the Herbstmesse isn’t just a fun outing. One of the oldest European fairs is their annual tradition, almost a pilgrimage to a living piece of history.
The history of Basler Herbstmesse accidents and incidents Wherever large crowds gather, mischief tends to follow, and the Basler Herbstmesse has been proving that for over five centuries. The earliest editions already attracted a colorful cast of pimps, pickpockets, and cardsharps, prompting Basel’s council to establish a dedicated fair police, a special fair court, and even deploy mounted mercenaries to guard the roads leading into the city. Jump to the 21st century, and while medieval swindlers have largely disappeared, technology has introduced a whole new category of mishaps. In 2017, six people were injured when two Rock & Roller Coaster cars collided after a brake malfunction. Just moments later, a drunk man fell from the Round Up Rounder carousel after attempting to hop into a neighboring compartment mid-ride, and seriously injured his head when he hit the ground. More recent years have featured both human and non-human errors. In 2023, a brutal fight broke out around the Basler Herbstmesse’s boxing machines, leaving one of the teenagers with life-threatening injuries. Convinced these macho-bravado devices fuel aggressive behavior, the city has since banned boxing machines from the fair. In 2024, the Hip Hop ride abruptly stopped due to a power outage, leaving riders hanging in an uncomfortable position for 11 minutes. By 2025, reports counted five brawls and five temporary expulsions from the fair. But the year's most memorable oddity came when a couple took their cat on a bumper car, sparking an unexpected debate on animal welfare. Only three lost children were registered this year, supposedly far fewer than in the past. Despite incidents being rare and isolated, the city of Basel tried to increase oversight and even experimented with technology to keep the event safer in 2025. However, immediately after they engaged autonomous security robots to patrol the fair, these were pulled from service due to data privacy concerns.
Basel Autumn Fair’s Key Features
1. Seven distinct fairgrounds (Plätze)
Unlike most funfairs that cram everything into one field and call it a day, the Basel Autumn Fair spreads across multiple historic squares.
With each location offering something different, visitors are encouraged to wander, snack, ride, repeat… and rediscover the fair again and again from totally new angles.
Here’s what each of the Basler Herbstmesse’s locations brings to the table:
Barfüsserplatz
This super central and, by tram, easily reachable square hosts a cheerful blend of rides, games, and food stalls.
The offer at Barfüsserplatz includes family-friendly attractions (Pinky, Babyflug, Disney Dream, Duck Pavilion), but also something for thrill-seekers – the 40-meter-high chain carousel Sky Swing, or the adrenaline-packed Hangover ride.
This square is also a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth. Think marshmallows, crepes, cotton candy, and the finest confiserie from Sprüngli, Sigrist, Wetzel, and others.
Prefer something savory? You’re covered: pinsa, tacos, currywurst, fondue, and grilled treats.
The legendary roasted chestnuts on this square are offered by the Brombin family, who’ve been perfecting them since 1927.
Barfüsserplatz is Basler Herbstmesse location that’s ideal for both younger visitors and adults seeking a lively, central fairground vibe, with Basel’s Old Town as the backdrop.
Münsterplatz
Set against Basel’s magnificent cathedral, Münsterplatz is where nostalgia rules: traditional carousels, wooden stalls, and a postcard-perfect atmosphere.
Many of the classic rides here have been delighting families for generations. They may not launch you into the sky at breakneck speed, but what they lack in intensity, they make up for in charm.
Overshadowing balloon stands, shooting and ring-throwing cars, showstoppers on this iconic square are the Crazy-Run (an original Swiss attraction ride featuring horse-drawn carriages whisking you through disco-style lighting), carousels ranging from children’s Swan Lake and Fairy Tale Flight with dragons and Aladdin’s carpet, to more thrilling Octopus, and – the tallest of them all – Bellevue, the 60-meter art nouveau Ferris wheel offering panoramic views over the city from its 42 enclosed gondolas.
In the food corner of the square, you’ll find everything from Cornish pasties, empanadas, risotto, and Swiss corn dogs to spicy raclette, freshly prepared potato chips, and grilled meats.
Dietary restrictions? You’ll also be able to get a vegetarian halloumi-burger, as well as crepes made from Swiss free-range eggs, including lactose-free and gluten-free versions.
Sweettooths will be happy to treat themselves to homemade waffles, warm pretzels, chocolate-dipped fruit skewers, and a range of mouthwatering artisan confections.
Münsterplatz is great for families, romantics, and anyone who appreciates classic fairground magic set against one of Basel’s most historic and beautiful backdrops.
Basel's Bellevue is a miniature when compared to the biggest Ferris wheels in the world. Check them out!
Messeplatz
If the Basel Autumn Fair had a “most likely to touch the sky” award, Messeplatz would win it every year. As the most modern and energetic of the Basler Herbstmesse sites, this square features high-profile rides and attractions that light up the city skyline.
Right next to the tram stop at Basel’s exhibition square, you’ll find a beloved classic: the Calypso, a 1960s carousel that spins with the kind of retro charm you can’t manufacture. It also happens to be the opening star of the Pipeaway Walk video, so take a look.
If you are a thrill-seeker, the heavy hitters are:
- Jules Verne Tower – An 80-meter-high chain carousel whips you around at up to 65 km/h. Romantic views and mild terror included.
- Deep Zone – Famously known as the fastest and wildest ride in Switzerland, this spinner will pump your adrenaline.
- Dance Jumper – A chaotic ballet of sudden drops, spins, and direction changes makes your stomach ask serious questions.
Between adrenaline rushes, Messeplatz’s bustling food and refreshment mile keeps everyone happy. You’ll find a variety of fair snacks here, from traditional Swiss cuisine to international specialties (burgers, quiches, churros, flammkuchen, arancini, kebab, fried noodles, lángos).
If you crave speed, lights, modern rides, and a healthy dose of “I probably shouldn’t have eaten that before going on Deep Zone”, Messeplatz is your kingdom.
Hallenmesse
Hallenmesse is the only indoor world of the Basler Herbtmesse, and a godsend for anyone whose cotton-candy soul melts at the first sign of rain. Set inside Messehalle 1, just steps from Messeplatz, this is where the funfair goes undercover.
The place that hosts everything from Eurovision Village to Fantasy Basel cosplays is more than capable of handling anything, including a full-blown amusement park packed under one gigantic roof. Inside, you’ll find a chaos of lights, music, snacks, rides, and games, all thriving shielded from wind and weather.
At Hall 1, you’ll spot timeless fair icons such as the Break Dance, where centrifugal force does its best to rearrange your internal organs, and the wobbly, crowd-favorite Tagada, a spinning disk that tests both balance and loyalty to whoever you’re riding with. Feeling aquatic? Step inside the oversized Waterballs and roll your way across a pool like a human hamster.
Whether you’re seeking shelter from the rain, a less windy place to snack, or a guaranteed-fun zone for kids and adults, Hallenmesse delivers the joy of a classic fairground with the comfort of a climate-controlled bubble.
Rosentalanlage
Historically the oldest fairground in Kleinbasel, Rosentalanlage is a venue built atop a former cemetery. This leafy park has transformed over the centuries into a lively venue for circuses, events, and a charming slice of the Basel Autumn Fair.
During the fair, the park blends classic nostalgia with novelty, for example, the vintage Enterprise, the waggling carousel Swing Up, the 120-degree-tilted Phoenix, or the overhead, heart-stopping sensation Hip Hop.
Prefer to stay closer to the ground (and keep your stomach where it belongs)? Hollywood Drive bumper cars let you control the chaos, one satisfying collision at a time.
Sweeten up your day with cravings such as popcorn, cotton candy, roasted almonds, and other sugar-laced treats that guarantee a happy stroll through the park!
Kasernenareal
During the Basler Herbstmesse, the vast open area near the former Rhine-side barracks transforms into the fair’s unofficial “extreme zone”, home to the boldest, loudest, and most adrenaline-charged rides.
Recent editions at Kaserne grounds included high-thrill amusements such as the 80-meter-high free-fall Fortress Tower (one of the tallest mobile spinning drop towers in the world), or Mythos (a rotating platform that spins you at speeds reaching 100 km/h).
If you prefer games over g-forces, the Kasernenareal square offers everything from ball-throwing and air-rifle shooting to chicken-flinging, bowling, and the ever-addictive Camel Race derby. Kids and young-spirited adults can try their luck at toy-grabbing crane claw machines, while fun houses like Coco Bongo or the mirror maze deliver giggles instead of whiplash.
Still, this Basler Herbstmesse place is primarily the domain of action-seekers. Classic stomach-flippers such as the Katz & Maus rollercoaster and fast-paced looping rides like Burner make Kaserne the hotspot for intensity-craving freaks.
And then there’s the fair’s most charming oddity: on the second Sunday of Basel Autumn Fair, the barracks grounds host a mass service conducted entirely in Autoscooter bumper cars. If having fun is your religion, this is the perfect moment to pray for God’s mercy at the fair, as you’ll swing, turn, and see the heavens in ways you didn’t think were possible.
Petersplatz
Petersplatz is where the Basler Herbstmesse slows down and where exhibitors celebrate craftsmanship, tradition, and the artisanal fair. This square is famous for its hundreds of market and trade stalls, offering souvenirs, pottery, and handmade goods – the classic Hääfelimärt vibe, especially along Bernoulistrasse, a tradition that’s been delighting visitors since 1877.
The Handwerkerdörfli (crafts-village) is the heart of Petersplatz, hosting live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as woodworking, weaving, printing, candle-making, or soap-making. It’s the perfect spot to watch artisans at work and pick up some unique gifts.
In comparison to loud thrill zones, Petersplatz is quieter and more relaxed. Rides here are fewer and gentler, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a break from constant adrenaline noise. Highlights include the glowing two-story Resslirytti horse carousel and the world’s oldest mobile ghost train, the haunted Vienna Prater Ghost Train (in operation since the 1930s).
Petersplatz is also a paradise for sweets lovers, as 25 confectionery stalls serve up their best: from magenbrot to marzipan, from nougat to chestnuts, from pancakes to pastel de nata.
2. Signature Food
The mouthwatering Basler Herbstmesse food is a huge part of the fair experience. Diverse offerings at this festival range from comforting Swiss classics to international surprises.
What’s the best food to eat at the Basel Autumn Fair? Follow your nose, because walking the fair without surrendering to at least one aroma is nearly impossible.
Here are the must-try treats that define Basler Herbstmesse:
- Magenbrot – Literally “stomach bread” (once thought to aid digestion), this is Basel’s signature spiced gingerbread pastry; soft, sweet, and irresistible.
- Mässmögge – Colorful sugar candy filled with soft hazelnut praline. One of Basler Herbstmesse’s specialties.
- Gebrannte Mandeln – Not burnt almonds, as translation may suggest, but just crunchy sugar-coated roasted almonds. Sold warm in paper cones, these caramelized treats are a timeless Baseler Herbstmesse staple.
- Chäsbängel – A long bread stick filled or topped with melted Swiss cheese. This hearty, indulgent specialty has become a cult snack at Basler Herbstmesse, and the most famous place to try one is Chäsbängel Wirtschaft Zihlmann at the Petersplatz.
- Raclette & Fondue-to-go – Switzerland’s iconic cheeses, adapted for strolling through the fair.
- Langos, churros, crêpes – Global treats brought into the mix of the Swiss fair food.
If you’re looking for vegan food at Basler Herbstmesse, your best addresses are:
- Vegetario (Messeplatz) – Bright green stand serving filled flatbreads, garlic bread, and vegan burgers.
- Grill Wraps (Rosentalanlage) – Hearty vegan and vegetarian grill wraps, perfect for refueling between rides.
- Härdöpfelhüsli (Petersplatz) – Vegan potato pancakes with homemade sauces.
- Hofmann’s Risotto (Münsterplatz) – Gluten-free risotto made with premium Carnaroli rice.
3. Basler Herbstmesse attractions and rides
We’ve already teased the most popular fair attractions while exploring the locations of Basler Herbstmesse, at least how they were spread out in 2025. Keep in mind that attractions can shift squares from year to year, but the variety always mirrors the fair’s diverse crowd, from pint-sized tots discovering their first carousel to adrenaline junkies seeking a full-blown stomach workout.
Whether you crave the gentle beauty of the past, high-flying thrills, or something wonderfully weird, the fair has you covered.
Typical Basel Herbstmesse attractions include:
- Ferris wheel with city views – Slow, scenic, and perfect for selfies.
- Rollercoasters and spinning rides – For those who enjoy a side of adrenaline with their sugar rush.
- Freefall towers – Check your stomach at the gate.
- Haunted houses – Thrills, screams, and occasional jumpscares guaranteed.
- Family carousels – The classic, gentle spin that never goes out of style.
- Game booths, shooting galleries, and arcades – Skill, luck, and maybe a giant plush prize.
The true charm of the Basler Herbstmesse lies in its range and contrasts. You might ride a whimsical carousel under Münster cathedral spires one moment, then launch yourself into a spinning LED monster at Messeplatz the next.
Every year, the entertainment program brings a mix of beloved returning classics and new European rides debuting at Basel funfair, ensuring that even longtime visitors can discover fresh thrills alongside old favorites.
Need some thrill in the United States? Check out Pigeon Forge rides!
When is Basel Autumn Fair?
The Basler Herbstmesse kicks off every last Saturday of October, marked by the ceremonial ringing of the Mässglöggli bell at noon at Martinskirche, a charming tradition dating back to 1471. From that moment, Basel transforms into a citywide playground for two full weeks, or a total of 16 days.
Mark the next Basel Autumn Fair dates in your calendar: 24.10.-8.11.2026.
Basler Herbstmesse opening times
Normally, Herbstmesse opening times are 12 pm – 10 pm (Sun-Thu) and 12 pm – 11 pm (Fri-Sat).
The locations of Messeplatz and Rosentalanlage follow the same schedule, but they begin operating at 11 am.
Petersplatz location also opens at 11 am, but closes at 8 pm.
Basel Autumn Fair tickets
Admission to the fairgrounds of the Basel Autumn Fair is free, as it’s a public city festival. But if you want to hop on rides, play games, or indulge in the culinary delights, you’ll need to pay per attraction. Prices typically range between CHF 4 and CHF 12, depending on the ride.
A pro tip for ride-hungry visitors: traditionally, the rides are free for the first hour of the fair (or at least the first quarter of an hour). This creates buzzing queues in front of popular attractions, so plan strategically if you want to snag free rides at different venues.
The luckiest family, however, can win the Golden Jeton. Introduced in 2023, this coveted Basler Herbstmesse golden token secures unlimited free rides for four during the first weekend. An equivalent to golden tickets for Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, the social-media raffle winners are announced at the opening ceremony.
Otherwise, tickets are purchased directly at each ride or stall. Most establishments accept cash and cards, although some prefer the good old-fashioned cash.
Some of the best Basel attractions cost nothing. Check out free things to do in Basel!
How to Get Around the Herbstmesse
Since the Basler Herbstmesse takes place across multiple squares, walking is by far the best way to explore. Stroll from Barfüsserplatz to Münsterplatz, hop over to Messeplatz, and let the sights, sounds, and smells guide you – you’ll discover something new at every corner.
Public transport in Basel is excellent, with trams and buses connecting all major fair locations.
Parking around the Old Town is limited, so visitors are encouraged to come car-free.
Where to park at Basler Herbstmesse?
If driving is unavoidable, Basel has several central parking garages, with Parkhaus Messe being the most convenient for fair visitors. Open 24/7, it offers 1,200 spaces at a rate of CHF 2–3 per hour, depending on your arrival/departure time. From there, it’s just a short stroll to the bustling fun.
Where to stay for Basler Herbstmesse? If you want to be in the center of the action and see amusement rides from above, the Hyperion Hotel Basel is located just at the Messeplatz. Check out prices on your platform of choice: Booking, Agoda, Trip, or Expedia. For other accommodation options in Basel, see here.
Get a taste of the fair atmosphere in our Basel Herbstmesse YouTube video!
Why the Basler Herbstmesse Is Worth Visiting
As one of Europe’s oldest continually running funfairs, with an unbroken legacy of over five and a half centuries, the Basler Herbstmesse has preserved its original role as a gathering point for merchants, artisans, and citizens, while evolving into a modern festival of sights, sounds, and flavors.
Its setting in Basel’s Old Town squares, framed by cathedral spires and historic architecture, is unmatched. Even more unique, the fair sprawls across the city center, from medieval plazas to contemporary sites, seamlessly mixing vintage carousels with cutting-edge thrill rides. This combination of old-world charm and modern excitement gives the Herbstmesse a quality that feels both timeless and fresh.
Basler Herbstmesse is a celebration that bridges medieval heritage with contemporary entertainment
For locals, the fair signals the changing of the seasons; for visitors, it’s a chance to immerse themselves in Swiss tradition, from artisan crafts at Petersplatz to mouthwatering magenbrot and roasted almonds, and from gentle family carousels to adrenaline-pumping rides at Messeplatz.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, photographer, or culture lover, the Basler Herbstmesse is more than just a fair. It is a living cultural asset of Basel, a celebration that bridges medieval heritage with contemporary entertainment.
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland in late October or early November, don’t miss this vivid, atmospheric, and historic celebration. Walk the squares, taste the treats, ride the attractions, and soak in the unique magic of Basel in autumn; it’s an experience you’ll want to relive year after year.
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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work! In the order of appearance, the authors of the photographs in this article are as follows: Night panorama of Basel (cover image) - Michael Kuhn kuhnmi, licensed under CC BY 2.0 Bellevue Ferris wheel - PiConsti, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Black-and-white photographs from the 1970s - Willy Pragher, licensed under CC BY 3.0 Chain carousel lights - PiConsti, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Part of Ferris wheel and cathedral - Chieh 捷, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 Drop tower in Messe hole - Andreas Schwarzkopf, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Hallenmesse and church service at Autoscooter - Basler Herbstmesse official media Hip Hop - Ivan Kralj Resslirytti carousel - Rolf Weber @roweb, licensed under CC0 1.0 Cotton candy girl - Georg Holderied polapix, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 Rollercoaster - Roland Zumbühl Picswiss, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Minster and Ferris wheel - vivalatinoamerica, licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 Resslirytti carousel (pin image) - Simon Kessler, Unsplash
