Customs The Gryff bird dances through Kleinbasel in rainy weather

The highest Kleinbasel holiday "Vogel Gryff" began on Monday morning. The three symbols of honor "Wild Maa", Leu and Vogel Gryff started their dances in rainy weather in front of many onlookers.

As is tradition, the "Wild Maa" began with a raft ride on the Rhine. Accompanied by firecrackers and drums, the custom of the three Kleinbasel honorary societies began at 10.30 am. During the descent, the "Wild Maa", a mythological figure with a grim mask and a fir tree in his hand, performed his dances on the tied pontoons. Always with his back to the Grossbasel.

The guests of honor on board this time were star chef Tanja Grandits and Claudio Miozzari (SP), who is still President of the Grand Council. His designated successor was also in attendance: this time, the chairman of the event was master craftsman Balz Herter, also known as "Mitte-Grossrat". He will take over the presidency of the cantonal parliament in February.

The "Wild Maa" arrived at the Kleine Klingental a little earlier than planned. While the descent was still reasonably dry, it started to rain when the raft landed at the Kleine Klingental. The "Wild Maa" met the Leu and Vogel Gryff there. Together they performed their first dance in front of Chairman Master Balz Herter. In the afternoon, he will give his first master's speech at the "Gryffemähli", the festive banquet of the three honorary societies.

Zeal & Ardor frontman invited

Guests of honor and personal guests include government councillor Kaspar Sutter (SP) and musician Manuel Gagneux, according to the "Drei E" website. The latter dedicated the current album of his internationally successful metal band to one of the three badges of honor. It is entitled "Greif" and this mythical creature also plays a leading role on the cover and in a video clip.

The game of the three honorary societies still has a rigorous program ahead of it. It features a total of 45 dances at 40 locations in Kleinbasel. The last public performance takes place at 11 pm in front of the Restaurant Du Pont, before the final dance for the relatives and members of the honor societies.

SDA