Opening Ceremony
Arrive early to see the ceremonial start. Keep close to the stage area.
~9:30
Chienbäse Fire Procession
Chienbäse
Liestal, Switzerland
Feb 21, 2027Expected
On the Sunday after Ash Wednesday, the Swiss town of Liestal blazes to life with the Chienbäse, a fiery night procession. Marchers carry burning bundles of pinewood on their heads and haul flaming carts through the old town, filling the streets with fire and smoke, in a dramatic rite to drive out winter and welcome Lent.
Key moments
Day 1 · Feb 21
Torch Parade
Secure a viewing spot along the route by 09:45. Protect phone/camera from heat and sparks.
~10:00 - 12:00
Closing Bonfire
Gather around the main bonfire; dress warmly and be cautious of flying sparks.
~22:00
Where it happens
Hauptplatz (Town Hall Square)
Liestal, Switzerland
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Arrive before peak flow
Spectators should not step onto the parade route or handle torches.
Read the local rhythm
Spectators should stay on sidewalks and observe quietly. Do not touch torches or join the p...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd gets very dense along the main route, especially near Hauptplatz.
Weather
Event continues in light rain; may be cancelled in heavy rain or strong winds due to fire risk.
Transport
S-Bahn S3 from Basel, local buses to Liestal
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Well-organized with clear barriers; fire safety measures in place.
Reviewed mediaREGIONAL COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Chienbäse Fire Procession
Chienbäse
Liestal, Switzerland
On the Sunday after Ash Wednesday, the Swiss town of Liestal blazes to life with the Chienbäse, a fiery night procession. Marchers carry burning bundles of pinewood on their heads and haul flaming carts through the old town, filling the streets with fire and smoke, in a dramatic rite to drive out winter and welcome Lent.
Under the radarStill under the radar
Feb 21, 2027Expected dates
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The story behind it
Chienbäse is intrinsic to Liestal’s local identity, marking the beginning of Lent by symbolically driving out winter. The term means 'chicken bone' but actually refers to the birch wood torches reminiscent of flames. Dating back to at least the 18th century, it reflects old fire-cult practices. The town closes its streets as fist-sized fires blaze overhead. This tradition emphasizes communal solidarity and provincial pride, d...
Key moments to know
Day 1Feb 213 moments
Day 1Feb 21~9:30Expected
Opening Ceremony
Arrive early to see the ceremonial start. Keep close to the stage area.
Day 1Feb 21~10:00 - 12:00Expected
Torch Parade
Secure a viewing spot along the route by 09:45. Protect phone/camera from heat and sparks.
Day 1Feb 21~22:00Expected
Closing Bonfire
Gather around the main bonfire; dress warmly and be cautious of flying sparks.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Arrive before peak flow
Spectators should not step onto the parade route or handle torches.
Read the local rhythm
Spectators should stay on sidewalks and observe quietly. Do not touch torches or join the procession.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Feb 21, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Liestal
Basel-Landschaft
Access
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL/MLH) · 25 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: CHF 70-100, Mid: CHF 150-200
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is intense and lively, with drums and cheers as the...
Crowd gets very dense along the main route, especially ne...
Good for
Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Moderate visitor welcome
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