The 552nd edition of the Basel Autumn Fair has been opened on Saturday. This year, Switzerland’s largest and oldest amusement fair offers 464 stalls, stands and game shops at its seven locations.

This year, Florian von Bidder rang in the occasion on time at 12:00 pm from the Martinskirchturm bell tower for the first time, following the tradition. He is the successor of Franz Baur, who had been ringing the “Messeglöcklein” for 33 years.

This year, the fair is starting with 28 offerings, 22 of which are new attractions. These include the roller coaster “Fire and Ice” and the upside-down ride “Hip Hop”. The “Skilift”, a classic from 1964, is taking part in the fair for the last time.

This year, as always, a giant Ferris wheel stands on Münsterplatz. Another tradition, the Hallenmesse, will only last until November 5th this year instead of two weeks. The reason for this is the setup of the Igeho trade fair in Hall 1.

The traditional open-air fair will last for its usual two weeks. Until November 12th, the fair will take place at the Messe, Münster, Barfüsserplatz, Rosentalanlage, and Kasernenareal. As per tradition, the autumn fair at Petersplatz with the “Hääfelimäärt” will remain open for two more days.

©Keystone/SDA