The Chienbäse festival is a tradition held on the Sunday evening following Ash Wednesday, in Liestal, located in the Basel Country canton. During this event large “brooms” crafted from logs are set ablaze and paraded through the charming historic district of Liestal. These burning “brooms,” weighing between 20 to 100 kg contribute to an grand display, for all attendees to enjoy.
The highlight of the Chienbäse event is the 20 fire floats that take stage in the procession. These sturdy wagons carry loads of burning wood creating a mesmerizing display of flames. The breathtaking moment occurs when the flames erupt upon passing through Liestals Obertor.
This grand event draws in crowds of tens of thousands from parts of Switzerland and neighboring countries annually. The tradition dates back, over two centuries as documented in records. In the century bonfires were lit on Burg and Weisse Fluh heights on Funkensonntag.
The modern Chienbäse parade, as we know it today was initiated after World War I by Eugen Stutz, a baker, from Liestal. Initially a small procession involving school children it expanded significantly from 1924 onwards. Has evolved into a cultural affair since then.
Video CHIENBÄSE – CARNIVAL PARADE
A short video showing the amazing fire parade – Chienbaese – as part of the Liestal Fasnacht (carnival) in March 2017. It gets hot!
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