Sounds of the Season in Basel

What does Basel sound like during Advent and Christmas time? In addition to the major highlights at Theater Basel, Basel Symphony Orchestra, Gospel, Cirque Noël or Variety Shows, the city has plenty of other music activities to participate in during December.

This article highlights some holiday events that are a little different. Events that encourage some contemplation, magic, community and connection. These events are either free or by donation. Just come along, alone or with friends or family, for a sense of community during the Christmas season.

KLAPA December 9-13

Photo: Zlatko Mićić

This is the scene: people gather together, silence. Nothing happens and then, very quietly, someone begins to sing. Memories surface, of songs, mountains, and the sea. Perhaps producing Morgestraich goosebumps. That's how the music performance of KLAPA begins. The Croatian singing form KLAPA (meaning club or group) is a community practice, usually amongst a group of friends.  Patricija Katica Bronić's new music performance creates a performative dialogue between cultures and people. Tickets are 15, 25 or 35 CHF (pay what you can). Want to sing along? On December 12, musician Jasmin Albash will offer a vocal introduction to KLAPA singing, with free admission.

Open Singing at Münsterplatz December 10,16 & 17

Photo: Baz

In December, you have almost daily opportunities for open singing in Basel, all with free admission. At the beautiful Basler Münster, you can join in with Singin English on December 10 and German-language Christmas carols on December 17. A big open circle singing will also be offered on December 14 at 17:15 at the Christmas market at Münsterplatz near the fountain. This event is not to be missed!

Community Concerts December 14, 20 & 21

Photo: Basellive

There are many special concerts in December in Basel that create a festive atmosphere for absolutely every musical taste. Together with the Knabenkantorei and the Symphonic Orchestra Switzerland (SOS), the Basel Cathedral Choir (BMK) performs an Advent concert "Il est né" at the Basler Münster on December 20 and 21 with a program of 20th-century music by Lili Boulanger and Honegger! 

For fans of bagpipe music, there will be a Christmas concert at Lysbüchel on December 14 by Dudelsackbund Basel. There is also another Christmas concert by the Basel Cathedral organists (also happening on December 14) that will feature powerful organ music. All concerts are free admission or by donation.

Party Time! December 24

Photo: Tristesse

What about on December 24? Where do locals meet in Basel after the festive meal? The destination is quite clear Kaserne Basel! At XYZMas, the Zischbar DJs and drag performances create a festive spirit in an artistic space designed by Kollektivo Cornetto. Dance the night away with DJs, drag performances and live music that offer a festive party for everyone, not limited to locals. No one has to be alone. Happy holidays!

Johanna Tydecks

Photo: Donata Ettlin

Johanna has many years of experience in theatre communications and media studies. She’s been part of the team at Kaserne Basel since 2022.

Kaserne Basel

Kaserne Basel is one of the most important venues for the independent contemporary theatre, dance, performance and music in Switzerland. It is a key partner of the local, national and international theatre and dance scene and, as a co-producer, continuously promotes the development of independent theatre and dance companies, as well as young artists from Basel, Switzerland and around the world. Kaserne Basel is also well known for its concerts featuring internationally and nationally renowned musicians. The programme, which focuses on live events, is characterized by its interesting blend of current, up-and-coming, innovative and well-established bands.