Fair The 554th Basel Autumn Fair has begun

The 554th edition of the Basel Autumn Fair opened at midday on Saturday. This year, Switzerland's largest amusement fair offers 470 rides, stands and amusement stores at its seven locations.

As is tradition, the fair bell rang out punctually at 12.00 noon on the Martinskirchturm. This year's fair has 33 more offers than last year.

The 85-metre-high "Aeronaut" chain carousel on the barracks grounds is a beacon in the truest sense of the word. Another new attraction is the "Spuk" ghost coaster on the Rosental site at Messe Basel. This ride combines a ghost ride with a roller coaster.

As always, there is a Ferris wheel on Münsterplatz, surrounded by many other traditional rides. Thousands of visitors flocked to the fairgrounds immediately after the opening bell rang.

As usual, the fair lasts two weeks. The Messeplatz, Münsterplatz, Barfüsserplatz, Rosentalanlage and Kasernenareal sites will be busy until November 10. In keeping with tradition, the Autumn Fair on St. Peter's Square with the "Hääfelimäärt" lasts two days longer. Around one million visitors are expected.

The weather forecast promises dry and sunny days at the fair, which will be good for the showmen's business. Last year, rainy weather caused a slight drop in visitor numbers.

SDA