Top 10 carnivals in the world
- By Xu Lin
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E-mail China.org.cn, April 20, 2012
Carnival of Basel, Switzerland（瑞士巴塞爾狂歡節(jié)）
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Carnival of Basel, Switzerland |
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Time: February-March for three days
Since 1853, the Carnival of Basel has a history of more than 150 years. Taking place annually between February and March, it is the biggest carnival in Switzerland. It starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday at precisely 4 a.m., lasts for exactly 72 hours, and ends on Thursday morning at 4 a.m. The 72 hours are often referred to "the three most beautiful days."
The Morgestraich marks the beginning of the carnival. All the lights in the old town of Basel are turned off and the only light remained comes from the lanterns, when the parade begins. The dressed-up performers on the floats play music, dance, or throw candies and souvenirs to the crowd.
During the carnival, everyone in the city have to wear costumes and masks in public places. Many restaurants and bars in the old town open their doors and keep them open for the following 72 hours. People are allowed to run freely in the streets and restaurants. All the offices are closed during the three days.
