Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Museumsnacht Basel: Ski Season is Here! Christmas Tattoo: Find the Class That’s Appreciating Art Selecting the Pipes and Drums, Right for You All Night Long Perfect Slopes Beauty and Grace

Volume 2 Issue 4 CHF5/ 4

MAGAZINE

A Family Guide to Discovering Basel for the Expat Community DEC 2013/JAN 2014

‘Tis the Season Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the holidays

EVENTS T R A D I T I O N S LIVING O U T I N G S FEATURE EVENT

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, Museumsnacht Basel Scheduled Museum Events: Here is a list of just a MAGAZINE few of the many special events and activities that will The city of Basel is quainter than ever with the warm glow of sparkling (Museums’ Night) January 17 be offered during Museumsnacht Basel 2014: DEC 2013/JAN 2014 Volume 2 • Issue 4 Christmas lights, beautifully adorned trees, and store windows loving- ly decorated to put you in the Christmas spirit! The city and Christmas Museumsnacht Basel is held once per year in January, Anatomisches Museum: Museum für Musikautomaten: TABLE OF CONTENTS markets are bustling with people, and the winter wonderland set up for and as its name implies, you can immerse yourself in the kids at the Münsterplatz will keep them busy with a multitude of The incredible tricks of make-up Listen to nostalgic tunes from the Feature Event: Museumsnacht Basel 3holiday activities including candle making, gingerbread decorating, the richly diverse cultural activities of Basel’s muse- artists; what you don’t see at a crime 1920s and rock rhythms from the pewter figure making/decorating, and metal forging. ums from 18:00 until the wee morning hours. You can scene—a look into the autopsy room 1950s played by the ghostly hands of of a forensic lab the automated piano at the bar Events in Basel: December/January 4-8 In this issue, you can read about the many holiday events that take visit 42 different institutions and five nightclubs in the place in December, including the English-language Panto production of Basel region for the price of one entrance ticket! Make-up, Fun Family Outings Beyond Basel: White Pods 9“Beauty and the Beast,” Christmas tram and ferry, winter circus, repairs, costumes, singing, gaming, dancing, eating, Antikenmuseum Basel: Naturhistorisches Museum Christmas Tattoo, Christmas concerts and caroling, musical Advent exploring, amazing objects, discussions—there will be Basel: calendar, Christmas tours, and Christmas museums exhibits on angels, In conjunction with the exhibit “Wann Markets and Fairs in Basel 10-11 holiday baking, or why we decorate our Christmas trees. Take a minute exciting entertainment for every age group and interest. ist man ein Mann?“ (What makes a Listen to a lecture on Basel’s love story to sign the “Book of Wishes” in Marktplatz, catch some of the fun that man a man?) guests can cross-dress with elephants St. Nicolas and his donkey bring to town on December 6, and don’t miss so men become women and women Get Going!: Ski Season is Here! 12-13 Museum Night Events become men the Basel tradition of Santas on Motorbikes. Then, when the rush of the Spielzeug Welten Museum holidays has finally passed, January greets us with bang—literally!— All museums have special programs and events planned Basel Traditions: Dreikönigstag (Three Kings Day) 14 Basel: with a grand fireworks display over the Rhein during the first hour of the (including many geared toward children), and some Basler Münster: New Year. museums also offer food, drinks, and entertainment. In conjunction with the Marilyn Jazz and mulled wine in the cloister; Calendar: January 2014 15 / 18 If you want to take in some outdoor winter fun over the Christmas break Note that some of these programs are offered contin- Monroe exhibit, dress up with wigs listen to music while you warm up or later this winter, check out our ski season special to find the ski resort uously throughout the evening while others are only and make-up in the style of Marilyn Monroe Calendar: December 2013 (double-sided) 16-17 that best suits your needs and learn all about the White Pods—a winter offered at certain times. For exact times, check out the vacation experience of a different kind. Another unique experience is the official program that will be published on their web- Druckwerk: centuries-old tradition of the Vogel Gryff ceremony. But you can also en- site. Also, with so many museums and activities avail- Workshops, Tours, and Education 19-21 Insights into a printing shop and Staatsarchiv Basel-Stadt: joy many great indoor activities, such as reading in a floating library on able, the Museumsnacht organizers have put together the art of various types of printing the Rhein, staying up all night in Basel’s many museums, or taking in some “theme tours” to help you sort through all that’s Discover the miles of history through Did You Know? 22-23 an international horse show. This issue is also filled with information on on offer—from suggestions for people who like to dress behind-the-scenes tours; get some in- sight into how experts evaluate what German classes, securing your home, new rules for E-biking, extended up or transform themselves into someone different to Kunstmuseum Basel: is archived and what is destroyed Information Desk: Sprechen Sie Deutsch? 24-25 holiday shopping hours, and countless shows, dances, comedy, concerts, suggestions for those who want to look behind the musicals, ballet, theater, workshops, fairs, and tours. Go behind the scenes to see how scenes of the museums or those who want to spend a restoration work is done; Mondrian Sports and Recreation 26-27 We hope that with all the rush of the holidays, you will take the time to more romantic evening with their significant other. Boogie-Woogie crash course; dance Zoo Basel: enjoy the splendor and magic that surrounds this season. Wishing you show; dance party Go behind the scenes at the zoo to safe travels, great holidays, and all the best for 2014! Entertainment: Parents’ Night Out 28-31 Practical Information see the feed rooms, the butcher, where the animals are kept when they are Time: 18:00-02:00 K’WERK Bildschule bis 16: Christine sick, and learn about the energy- Ticket Office: Get Your Tickets Now! 31 Christine Pesold Dress up as Dracula or a ghost at witch- efficient ways in which the enclosures Tickets: CHF 24 (€19.50) for adults, CHF 14 (€11.50) Editor-in-Chief ing hour and have your picture taken are heated for Museums-Pass-Musées holders, free for children and Mark Your Calendar: February 2014 Back Page [email protected] young adults up to age 25 with proof of ID. Tickets can be purchased at any of the participating museums. Museum der Kulturen Basel: Basel Family Magazine Contacts: COVER: Every year, thousands of visitors enjoy Basel’s In conjunction with the exhibit on Editor-in-Chief: Christmas markets—both the main one at Barfüsser- Transportation: With your Museumsnacht ticket, make-up, let yourself be treated to the Christine Pesold platz, with its signature illuminated star at the front you are entitled to free travel from 17:00 on selected perfect make-up of the square, and the smaller one at Münsterplatz. Advertising & Subscription TriRegio public transport routes. Special shuttle buses Despite the throngs of people crowding the narrow are also set up to take people around to the various Manager / Editor: alleyways between the stalls, particularly on the Susanne Hiller museums, and two ships on the Rhein also help you to weekends, a visit there is a “must” during the holiday get from one end of town to the other. Art Director: season. Whether it is to warm up and chat with friends Jon Hoefer over a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine), enjoy one of the Special Assistance: For wheelchair users or seniors, many sweet and savory delicacies available, pick up For more information about three vehicles with wheelchair access will be avail- some traditional or unusual Christmas ornaments, or subscribing or advertising – able at Münsterplatz from 18:00 to 01:30 for transport look for the right gift for a special someone—there is please contact us: between the museums (sorry, no home transport something there for everyone! [email protected] service). Telephone booking line during Museums’ www.baselfamilymagazine.com photo credit: cover: © klaus brodhage Night: +41 (0)79 424-3077.

Basel Family Magazine © Copyright 2013-2014. All rights reserved. It is our goal to provide valuable, timely information to the expat community of For a complete schedule of events and additional Basel. The opinions expressed in the articles in this magazine are those of the contributing authors and do not reflect those of other members of the details, check the official Museumsnacht website from editorial staff and of any organizations or agencies distributing this magazine. Though we make every attempt to provide accurate information, we can- not be held responsible if any event is cancelled, postponed, or modified. We encourage readers to contact the event organizers or their websites to December 20. obtain the most current event information. If you have any questions, please contact Basel Family Magazine staff at: info@baselfamilymagazine. com. Please note: No part of this periodical may be duplicated in any fashion, or redistributed in any written language, without permission from the www.museumsnacht.ch executive staff at Basel Family Magazine. photo credit: © basel tourismus © basel credit: photo

2 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 3 Events in Basel: December/January

Christmas Ferry 10:00-20:00. This year’s theme will be on be baked every Wednesday to Sunday, St. Nikolaus Day December 6 November 28 – December 23 humanity and our co-existence in soci- from 13:30-17:30. You can watch the ety. Claraspital is located at Kleinriehen- baking and taste the exquisite Christmas The Klingental ferry near Kaserne will In this part of the world, December 6 the old town while loudly ringing small strasse 30 in Basel and can be reached by sweets. Niggi Näggi at the Tierpark be transformed into a Christmas ferry is very important to children because and large bells. The procession is led by Tram 2 or 6 (“Hirzbrunnen” tram stop). December 1 during the festive season. You can enjoy www.spielzeug-welten-museum- St. Nikolaus, also known here as Santichlaus, dressed in a blue robe, and basel.ch Samichlaus, Schmutzli, and their don- a ride across the river on this magical Samichlaus or Santichlaus, comes and Schmutzli. They are accompanied by the key will be on site to greet kids at 15:00 ferry, which can also be booked for brings them sweets or other small gifts. “Yfflen”—illuminated bishop’s hats that in the Erlebnishof at Lange Erlen. Good private apéro or fondue events. Christmas Concert He usually travels with a donkey that are either worn by older youth or carried little boys and girls are invited to recite a carries his sack, as well as his helper, on a wooden structure. This group is fol- www.weihnachtsfaehre.ch December 1 verse or poem to Samichlaus in exchange the dark-clad “Schmutzli.” He often lowed by the enthusiastic kids with their The Basler Zeitung will be hosting a “BaZ for a small goodie bag. There will also be also carries a big golden book with bells. At the end of the procession, all hilft” benefit Christmas concert with the hot chocolate and Grättimänner (little Regionale 14 him in which he purportedly has re- children receive a Grättimann. Meeting Sinfonieorchester Basel at 11:00 in the sweet dough men), while supplies last. November 28 – January 5 corded all of the children’s good and place is the Liestaler Allee (close to the Musiksaal of the Stadt-Casino Basel. Tick- bad deeds over the past year. Children www.erlen-verein.ch train station and McDonalds) at 17:00; Sixteen institutions in the 3-country ets can be purchased at the Basler Zeitung who have been good receive small gift the procession ends around 17:45. region will present contemporary art location in Aeschenplatz. from almost 600 local artists. Locations bags with chocolates, peanuts, clem- Niggi Näggi im Zoo are scattered between Basel, Liestal, Stras- www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch

entines, and the like. However, chil- museum welten © spielzeug bourg (France), and Freiburg (Germany). dren who have “misbehaved” all year December 4 The goal of Regionale 14 is to present the Christmas, Sweet and Crunchy Literary and Musical Advent Calendar are threatened that Schmutzli will St. Nikolaus will be coming from 14:00- diversity of creative expression to the stuff them in his sack and take them 17:00 to the stage of the zoo restaurant November 30 – February 9 in Theater Basel interested public. back to the Black Forest where they where kids can come and recite a poem This year’s special Christmas exhib- December 1-23 will need to perform chores, such as or verse for him, in exchange for a small www.regionale.org it at the Spielzeug Welten Museum is The Theater Basel is presenting a special peeling carrots for the donkey, for gift (even those too shy to talk to St. Nick dedicated to the theme of Christmas advent calendar daily at 17:00 (15:00 one whole year. will get a gift). Grättimänner and hot Basler Wunschbuch (Book of Wishes) cookies and cakes from around the world. on December 22) in the entrance foyer. chocolate will be available at discounted The museum will be filled with the smell On December 6, you may see the November 28 – January 6 Members of the Theater Basel (choir, bal- prices. of biscuits, bûche de Noël, speculoos, occasional Samichlaus and his let troupe, musical and theater ensem- For the 20th year, the traditional Basel Lebkuchen, gingerbread, Bredele, panet- Schmutzli walking through town and www.zoobasel.ch ble) as well as guests will present stories, Book of Wishes will be located in the tone, Stollen, and Vanillekipferl as well poems, or singing—sometimes classically visiting children in their homes, or front courtyard of the city hall at Markt- as of all the delightful exotic spices and Christmas and sometimes quite different they may come to a square or neigh- Liestal platz. Everyone is invited to write their ingredients that are needed for Christmas and even comical. Each presentation will borhood park where young children Santichlaus Ylüte, thoughts; what they are thankful for; baking. The first Christmas biscuits were last about 30 minutes and entrance is can recite verses in exchange for a December 6 lists to Santa Claus; or wishes for peace, presumably baked by nuns and monks in free. goodie bag. Various events on or In Liestal, in a noisy tradition dating love, and health. It is also great fun to the Middle Ages. As they required expen- around December 6 also feature St. www.theater-basel.ch back to 1928, children gather in the read what other people are wishing for! sive spices from distant lands, they were

Nikolaus. varaklis © john credit: photo late afternoon for a procession through only made for this important religious www.wunschbuch.ch Bambi festival. The exhibit will take visitors back to this fascinating time. You can December 1-31 Christmas Park at St. Claraspital “Yspalascht” (Ice Palace) Angel Exhibit Winter Circus discover rare scents and unique tastes as The Vorstadt Theater will be presenting November 19 – December 23 November 22 – January 5 November 23 – December 22 November 30 – January 6 well as biscuit cutters and other utensils the story of Bambi in a new and origi- The “Yspalascht” is a white foam hut The Christmas exhibit at Circus Go will present its Christmas cir- Stephan Primus designed this enchanting necessary to bake these delicacies. For nal way, as a poetic story about the cy- meant to look like an ice palace that is the Museum der Kulturen cus entitled “Emotionen” in Aesch at the Christmas park that is open daily from the duration of the exhibit, biscuits will cle of life from childhood to adulthood, set up every year next to the church in Basel this year centers Circusplatz Parkplatz Löhrenacker. There Claraplatz. It is a local holiday favorite to on the theme of angels. will be traditional circus acrobatics, jug- gather and enjoy drinks and food, such They have been known gling, and clown acts, all with a fairytale Gospel Night as the traditional pasta dish “Ghaggts since early Judaism and theme. Tickets cost CHF 30-65 for adults mit Hörnli” (elbow macaroni with meat probably originated in pre- and CHF 20-45 for kids ages 2-12. You can December 1 sauce), in a truly Swiss Christmas atmo- Islamic Iran. They were described as mem- also buy combination tickets for circus On the evening of the first Sunday of Ad- sphere. Runs daily from 10:00-21:00. bers of the heavenly hierarchy in the Old and brunch. For more information, go to vent, the Basel Münster (cathedral) will Testament and are regarded as personi- their website. be crowded with people coming to hear Gospelnacht 2013. The program starts Children’s Theater—Cinderella fications of good and bad fortune. The www.circus-go.ch exhibit shows these mysterious winged at 20:00 and ranges from traditional November 16 – January 19 creatures in a variety of depictions, such Nativity Set Exhibition gospel to modern pop anthems and The Basler Kinder Theater is presenting as archangels, guardian angels, and an- appeals to people of all generations. November 27 – December 4 the Brothers Grimm’s classic fairytale gels of death, as jubilant and mournful, Under the leadership of Oliver Rudin “Aschenputtel” (Cinderella) every Wed- as protectors, and as companions. The The Heilsarmee (Salvation Army) located (founder and member of the acapella nesday, Saturday, and Sunday. This ver- vernissage will be held on November 21 at Erasmusplatz 14 in Basel, will display “The Glue”), the young choir members sion will be presented in Basel dialect and at 18:30 and the exhibit will be free to over 200 nativity sets from all around share the passion of singing and delight is suitable for kids ages 4 and up. Tickets the public at this time. The museum will the world. They can be admired in the with their powerful performances. are CHF 12 for kids, CHF 14 for adults, or host several tours in German, as well as Saal der Heilsarmee Basel 1 from 11:00- www.gospelchorammuenster.ch CHF 6 per person with the Familienpass. tours and workshops for kids. 17:30. photo credit: © gospelchor am münster © gospelchor credit: photo photo credit: © museum der kulturen basel © museum der kulturen credit: photo www.baslerkindertheater.ch http://www.mkb.ch www.heilsarmee-krippen.ch 4 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 5 Events in Basel: December/January (continued)

old age, and departure. This German- for kids; for all other shows, tickets cost depart the Messeplatz and ride their Har- for children and students and can be Tickets cost CHF 50-155 for adults, CHF language production has wit and depth CHF 35 for adults and CHF 22 for kids. leys through the city, ending at Markt- purchased online or at Bider & Tanner. 27-60 for kids, and are available online. and is for kids ages 8 and up. Tickets are Tickets are available from Ticketino as platz where they will distribute little www.lacetra.ch www.theater-basel.ch CHF 10-25, reductions for families. well as many other locations, including goodie bags to children in exchange for www.musikwyler.ch www.vorstadttheaterbasel.ch Bider & Tanner. The profits from the per- a verse. Parents can purchase Glühwein formances help fund schooling for sev- (mulled wine) and Grättimänner; all pro- Tuba Christmas eral girls from disadvantaged families in ceeds go to Theodora, an organization of Hänsel and Gretel Opera December 15 Visit the Towers at the Basler Münster Kenya at the Starehe Girl’s Center. clowns that bring laughter to children at December 3, 4, 8, 26, and 29 On this day, over 90 brass musicians from December 2-20 www.baselpanto.org the Kinderspital (children’s hospital). Theater Basel will be presenting a special all over Switzerland will come into the The towers of the Basler Münster offer www.ticketino.com www.hognws.ch/nigginaeggievent version of Engelbert Humperdinck’s fairy city and add to the Christmas spirit by breathtaking views of the city of Basel, www.theodora.ch tale opera of “Hänsel and Gretel,” based playing Christmas music outdoors at the as well as neighboring France and Ger- on the classic Brother Grimm’s story. Münsterplatz at 15:30 and at Marktplatz Wiehnachts-Drämmli (Christmas Tram) many. You can climb the 250 steps of the The opera will be in German from 16:00- at 16:00. Donations are accepted and all Family Concert - Klingelingeling tower anytime of the year for a cost of December 6-22 17:45 and is suitable for kids ages 5 and money raised will be given to the Krebs- CHF 5 per person (minimum 2 people at December 7 and 8 liga Beider Basel (Basel Cancer Society). Every year, the up. Tickets cost CHF 30-46 and are avail- will charm old and young to the wonder- a time). Entrance to the towers closes 30 Basel public trans- The Sinfonieorchester Basel will be able online. www.klbb.ch ful music of Tchaikovsky. Performances minutes before the cathedral closes. The port system (BVB) presenting “Klingelingeling” (ring-ding- www.theater-basel.ch are at 19:00 on December 19 and at 15:00 view from the towers can be especially sponsors a Christ- a-ding). Three first-class singers from and 19:30 on December 21. Tickets are beautiful during the Christmas season, mas tram just Bulgaria, Spain, and Poland will sing car- Jens Hanke Exhibit CHF 42 for adults and CHF 19 for chil- when the city sparkles with holiday illu- Snow White Ballet for kids. One of ols from their homelands. They will be December 15 dren and can be purchased online. minations. During the four weeks lead- the old trams is accompanied by the percussion ensemble December 14 – March 7 balzer art projects is hosting an event www.theater-basel.ch ing up to Christmas, the towers can be decked-out with of the Sinfonieorchester Basel as well as Ballet Basel and the Sinfonieorchester apéro from 17:00-19:00 for an exhibition visited until 18:00, and the stairs leading Christmas decorations and driven by the Streicherklasse des Schulhauses Insel, Basel will team up to present the world of a collection of drawings and collages up to the top are lit from 16:00-18:00. Santa himself! The tram rides around Ba- who will enchant you with subtle tones première of Snow White, a ballet cho- Swan Lake Ballet entitled “Jens Hanke: having been down www.muensterbasel.ch sel for 90 minutes while Santa and his that match the contemplative time. Con- reographed by Richard Wherlock. This December 25 ‘angels’ tell Christmas stories (in Ger- cert is at 14:30 in the Foyer of the Theater by the fishes.” feature-length version of the well-known The Russian National Ballet of Moscow man). The kids can also recite Christmas Basel. Tickets can be purchased at Bider www.balzer-art-projects.ch Pinocchio story takes you on a journey through the will be presenting Swan Lake for one verses to Santa and all are given a treat. & Tanner and cost CHF 35 for adults and dark enchanted forest, across the seven night only at the Musiksaal of the Stadt- December 1, 3, 4, 14, 15, 22, and 26 The kids must be mature enough to travel CHF 15 for kids; families with 2 adults mountains to the seven “cheeky chap- The Nutcracker Ballet Casino Basel. Swan Lake is the most Theater Basel is presenting the classic without a parent (no adults allowed) and and 2 kids pay CHF 80, plus CHF 10 for pies” who proceed to keep the heroine December 19 and 21 popular classical ballet of all time. This story of Pinocchio, with a lot of Italian must remain on the tram for the entire each additional child. safe from all kinds of harm—first and presentation with a stunning perfor- temperament and music for the whole ride. While this event is well supervised Just in time for the holidays, the fabu- www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch foremost, of course, her wicked stepmoth- mance that embodies what classical family. Master Gepetto has carved a pup- and there is no published age limit, be lous “Der Kleine Nussknacker” (The Little er. Just “who is the fairest of them all” ballet is all about and the immortal pet from a wooden log that comes to life sure that the event is age-appropriate for Nutcracker) Christmas ballet is interpret- Basler Mineralientage and whether, at the end of the day, the music of Peter Tchaikovsky will mesmer- and creates mischief. Watch his many your child. The rides are totally free but ed again by students of the Ballettschule prince is able to compete with seven spir- ize its audience. Tickets are CHF 57-108 adventures and see how his wooden nose are on a first-come-first-serve basis. The December 7 and 8 Basel. It is the magical story of Marie and ited, leaping, and spinning dwarfs will be for adults and CHF 46-87 for kids. grows with every lie. Show will be on the tram leaves from the water fountain near The 44th Internationale Basler Mine- revealed in this staging of the fairytale her Nutcracker, who comes to life in a Kleine Bühne at Theater Basel. Schifflände at 14:00 and 15:30 every day, ralientage are all about minerals, fossils, ballet. Performances will take place on dream and turns into a handsome young www.highlight-concerts.com man. Armies of mice and sugar fairies www.theater-basel.ch except Mondays and Tuesdays. jewelry, accessories, and related equip- the Grosse Bühne at the Theater Basel. http://www.tramoldtimer-basel. ment. It is aimed at collectors, traders, Swan Lake—Family Ballet as well as the simply curious. It will be ch/weihnachtstam2.html December 29 English Panto—Beauty and the Beast held at Halle 2.0 of the Messe Basel on One Million Stars December 5-8 December 7 from 10:00-18:00 and on December 14 This beautiful version of the beloved classic ballet by Peter Tchaikovsky for all The Basel English Panto Group will be Christmas Caroling December 8 from 10:00-17:00. Entrance In cities all over Switzerland, children ages 4-94 will be on the stage presenting the panto, Beauty and the December 7 costs CHF 10 for adults, CHF 5 for those the charitable organization of the Musiksaal of the Stadt-Casino in Beast, a seasonal family show in English ages 10-18, and free for kids under 10. Caritas is organizing a can- On this Saturday, people will gather at Basel. Colorful costumes and a fanci- with singing, dancing, and lots of humor- There are 2-day tickets at a reduced dle lighting ceremony called the Münsterplatz from 17:15-18:00 to ful set design promise to enchant every ous characters. The village of Springdale price. “Eine Million Sterne.” In sing Christmas songs. Everyone will be child. The story is narrated by the char- is under threat from the bad fairy Bot- www.basler-mineralientage.ch Basel, this will take place in given pages containing the words to the ismatic actress Melinda Thompson, who oxia, her Toxic Monkeys and The Beast. Marktplatz, starting at 17:00. songs so that they can participate. A brass draws in young and old with catchy little Botoxia’s henchmen creep into the Thousands of candles will ensemble will accompany the singing. Messiah-Mitsingkonzert (Messiah poems full of wit, charm, and love. village and steal Dame Twiggy’s chick- be lit, and donations to help www.liedertafelbasel.ch Sing-Along Concert) ens. Our heroes set off into the forest any of Caritas’ several causes www.stadtcasino.ch to find them but are attacked and Belle December 8 will be accepted (voluntary). is taken prisoner in the Beast’s castle. The La Cetra Baroque Orchestra and This is a beautiful sight to see, Santas on Motorbikes New Year’s Eve Concert However, Belle and the Beast form an La Cetra vocal ensemble together with especially as night sets in! December 7 December 31 alliance against Botoxia and finally lib- soloists are the foundation of the perfor- www.einemillionsterne.ch erate the village and the forest from her A group of about 50 Santa Clauses will mance. You are welcome to sing along This traditional New Year’s Eve concert evil spells. The performances will be held gather at the Messeplatz at 16:00, where to a selection of songs or just listen and will be performed by the Basler Festi- at the Scala Basel on Freie Strasse 89. Tick- spectators can admire their festively enjoy this musical feast. Concert will take val Orchestra at the Stadt-Casino in ets for the first performance on Thursday decorated Harley-Davidson motorbikes. place at the Stadt-Casino Basel at 19:00. photo credit: © caritas Barfüsserplatz at 19:00.

photo credit: © pascal morat © pascal credit: photo night are CHF 30 for adults and CHF 20 Shortly before 17:00, the Santas will Tickets are CHF 50 for adults and CHF 30 www.musikwyler.ch

6 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 7 Events in Basel: December/January (continued) Fun Family Outings Beyond Basel by Keri Hinshaw New Year’s Eve Celebration Family Concert Whitepod: A Unique Winter Adventure December 31 January 19 Nestled high in the Dents-du-Midi mountain range of the Tradition here in Basel is to welcome the “Tranquilla Trampeltreu—eine beharrliche Upon Arrival Swiss canton of Valais, Whitepod is an eco-luxury resort that New Year on the Münsterplatz, where Schildkröte bereist die Welt” (Tranquilla offers guests a “glamping” (glamorous camping) experience The friendly and helpful Whitepod staff offers check-in between 15:00- the city’s brass and choir ensemble will Trampeltreu—a persistent turtle travels in the beauty of the Swiss Alps, while staying true to its “Zero 18:00 at the Reception Chalet. Guests receive a backpack that contains play and count down to midnight. This the world) is the title of this family con- Impact” eco-conscious roots. In other words, you don’t have a map and flashlight, and are then fitted with crampons and walking is followed by a brief service at the Mün- cert presented by the Musikschule Basel to rough it to be green at Whitepod! sticks for the 15-minute uphill hike to the pods. The luggage is trans- ster and a big fireworks display over the in the Grosser Saal of the Musik Akademie ported via snowmobile to the pod, where a staff member then provides A recipient of the Responsible Tourism Award for Innovation, Rhein that starts at 0:30. Basel. Bass and harp tell Michael Ende’s instruction on pod use. the resort currently consists of 15 dome-shaped canvas “tents” www.basel.ch story of time, courage, and trust. Cost is CHF 15 for adults (CHF 5 with Familien- anchored to wooden platforms, each positioned with a large Sleeping Arrangements pass); under 20 are free. bay window overlooking the valley below and the moun- Calendar Girls Auditions tains beyond. Heated only by a wood-burning stove and lit by The resort has 10 standard and 5 family pods. The standard pods can www.musik-akademie.ch January 8 and 11 lanterns, each 40 m2 pod is decorated with faux fur, large sleep up to 3 guests, with one king-size bed plus an extra single bed on rugs, and local antiques, offering a cozy escape from the the “mezzanine” (basically the roof of the free-standing, fully equipped, Semi-Circle, Basel’s English Language wooden bathroom structure in the pod, recommended for children ages photo credit: © basel tourismus © basel credit: photo Basler Jugendbücherschiff 2014 surrounding snowy landscape. A private ski hill and kilome- Drama Group will be staging a produc- 8-16 years). The family pods can responsible for the city’s defense several January 22 – February 5 ters of marked hiking trails are also part of the Whitepod tion of Calendar Girls, the fastest-selling sleep up to 4 guests, with one king- hundred years ago. On this day, three property. play in British theater history, based on This yearly event is a very special book size bed plus two small single beds heraldic figures representing the three At 1400m above sea level, there are no bright lights, the true story of eleven WI members who fair that takes place on the ‘MS Chris- on the mezzanine. Children under 3 Guilds—the Wilde Maa, Leu, and Vogel no shops, and no neighbors at Whitepod. Entertain- posed nude for a calendar to raise money toph Merian’ boat that is docked at years are offered a free baby cot, Gryff—parade through Kleinbasel, ac- ment comes in the form of exploring the great outdoors, for the Leukaemia Research Fund. There Schifflände. It houses all kinds of books and it is recommended that children companied by three drummers, three consuming the local cuisine, and relaxing in the stillness of are 10 female and 4 male roles, and the 7 for kids of all ages in many differ- ages 3-8 years sleep in the large bed standard-bearers, and four jesters (Ueli), the mountains. Whether as a romantic get-away or a family performance dates are scheduled for June ent languages. Children, adolescents, with their parents. 13-28, 2014. If you would like to audi- who collect money for the needy. It starts their parents, school classes, teachers— escapade, Whitepod is truly a unique adventure! tion, come to the Rampe Theater from at 11:00 when the Wilde Maa (crazy man) essentially anyone interested in chil- Meals 19:00-21:30 on January 8, or from 9:30- floats down the Rhein on a barge, escort- dren’s literature—is invited to the ship Further Information: 12:00 on January 11. If you cannot make ed by his drummers and other entourage. to leaf through the books on hand and Breakfast and teatime snacks are offered free of charge in the pod’s either of these dates, then contact them He performs a ceremonial dance with his discover new reading material. Winter Season 2013 chalet. For dinner, guests can enjoy fine local cuisine in the “Les at [email protected] and they back stubbornly turned towards Gross- www.ed-bs.ch/bildung/pzbs/biblio- Cerniers” restaurant in the reception chalet, or trek (via car or taxi) December 19 – April 5 (note that they now open during the “green will try to accommodate you with other basel. At the Mittlere Brücke, he is met thek/literale-foerderung/basler- to one of the nearby villages for more options. months” for a summer adventure as well!) dates/times. For more information about on the Kleinbasel river bank by the Leu jugendbuecherschiff Winter Activities the play or Semi-Circle, visit their web- (a lion-like figure) and the Vogel Gryff (a Rates site. half-man-half-bird creature). Each of the Jazz Concert at the Tinguely Museum They offer a wide variety of activities, three figures has its own characteristic Prices start at CHF 360 per night per pod; minimum stay is 2 nights, including skiing on a 7-km private ski hill www.semi-circle.ch January 31 dances that they perform throughout the although 3-4 nights are recommended; special offers are available. (2 lifts covering 700 meters in altitude; pri- day in various locations around Kleinba- From 16:00-18:00 on the last Friday of vate ski lessons available); snow trekking Vogel Gryff Ceremony sel as well as on the Mittlere Brücke. The every month, top jazz performers are giv- Getting There (up through snow, down on skis with guide and optional picnic), festival ends late at night. You can find a January 13 ing concerts in the space dedicated to the Whitepod is approximately 220 km from Basel, just south of Montreux. snow shoeing with or without a local guide (equipment available); cani- complete list of the locations and times One of Basel’s old and unique traditions current exhibition at the Tinguely Muse- If you go by car, free parking is available at the reception chalet. (Please cross (snow shoeing while being pulled by a dog), dog sledding with a for their performances on their website, is the Vogel Gryff ceremony, a vestige of um, providing a musical highlight and a remember snow tires and/or chains.) You can also reach them by train team of sled dogs and their trainer; sledding (wooden sleds provided); or by clicking on “Routenplan.” This is defi- the muster-parade inspections for the point of focus. The concert is free with or bus. paragliding (tandem flights with a certified pilot). And if that is too much citizen soldiers trained by three guild- nitely a festival like no other! admission to the museum. activity for you, you can also get a massage treatment at the reception like societies in Kleinbasel that were www.vogel-gryff.ch www.tinguely.ch Resort Layout chalet or in your pods. And don’t forget to JUST RELAX! The resort has 15 units scattered on the mountainside near the for- For further information, contact them at [email protected]. CSI Basel est edge. Among them is an 1800s wooden chalet that offers a lounge/ www.whitepod.com bar area with board games and free WiFi (if you must!), a sauna, and a January 9-12 Japanese bath. The main Reception Chalet is a 15-minute walk downhill This Grand Prix world-class horse-jumping from the pods and houses a restaurant and massage spa. championship will host the best horses and riders of the world, including success- ful Olympians, as well as world, European, and Swiss champions. It takes place at St. Jakobshalle. There is a different program on each of the four days—check their German/English website for a complete list of events. There are only 6,000 seats available, so book now as they are going fast! www.csi-basel.ch www.ticketcorner.ch photo credit: © katja stuppia/longines csi basel stuppia/longines © katja credit: photo photo credits: © jon hoefer / whitepod.com © jon hoefer / credits: photo

8 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 9 Markets and Fairs in Basel

sticker (Umweltplakette) for your car to drive within the city Christmas Markets in and Around Basel limits or you may incur a fine.) One of the highlights at this time of the year are the charming Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets), also known as Christkindlesmarkt (Christ Child Market). These street markets, which typically run during Christmas Market in Strasbourg, France the four weeks of advent, date back to the late middle ages in the German-speaking part of Europe. The November 30 – December 31 most notable Christmas markets include those in Nuremberg (DE), Birmingham (UK), Copenhagen (DM), Located about 90 minutes from Basel, Stras- Vienna (A), and Strasbourg (FR). But you don’t have to roam quite so far to visit fantastic Christmas mar- bourg’s Christmas market is well worth the kets. Basel’s markets are outstanding, and there are also some beautiful markets in neighboring towns drive. The city’s beautiful cathedral makes a gor- of France and Germany that are well worth the drive. They offer a different selection of wares than those geous backdrop to this very large and special mar- in Switzerland, with often considerably lower prices (although the quality of the wares may also vary to ket. In existence since 1570, it is the oldest and most revered some degree). For more information on Christmas markets in the smaller picturesque Alsacian towns Christmas market in France. The city’s great restaurants and in France visit http://noel.tourisme-alsace.com/en, and for those in neighboring towns in shops make it an especially worthwhile day-trip. Be aware that Germany, such as Weil am Rhein and Lörrach, visit www.weihnachtsmarkt-deutschland.de. it can be challenging to push a stroller through the market when photo credit: © basel tourismus © basel credit: photo crowded. Open 10:00-20:00 (Fridays and Saturdays until 21:00). Basler Weihnachtsmarkt at type of Alsacian pizza topped with thick numerous stands, food, and entertain- Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz cream, onions, and bacon), and my favor- ment for young and old. They are located at Gärtnerstrasse 46 in Basel. Christmas Tree Markets November 28 – December 23 ite, “Kartoffel Puffer”—a type of potato pancake served with either applesauce or www.aktienmuehle.ch Several independent stands around town start to sell Christmas Symbolized by its large illuminated star garlic sauce; yum! This market is also open trees in December, including ones at Münsterplatz, Aeschen- right at the front, the market in Barfüsser- daily from 11:00-20:00. Christmas Markets in Baselland platz, Gellert, by the Heiliggeistkirche, and at the Matthäuskirche platz is the original Christmas market in Also at Münsterplatz, you can find a Christ- in Kleinbasel. Other Christmas tree sellers can be found in Basel. With its hundreds of decorated Many smaller communities around Basel mas fantasyland for children. From Decem- neighboring communities in Baselland, including at the Mathis- Christmas trees, lights, and stalls, a visit also host Christmas markets, normally for ber 6-22, Robi-Spiel-Aktionen is organizing Hof in Bottmingen. here is a quaint and wonderful tradition one weekend in December. Check with a variety of activities for the whole family. If you prefer the ritual of cutting your own tree, the Mathis to look forward to each year. Near the your local “Gemeinde” for information on Kids can sign/draw in the children’s wish Hof invites you on December 14 and 15 to hop on the trac- front of the market, a display put on by those in your area, or go to the following book, while enjoying a cup of hot choc- tor and wagon to select and saw down your choice of tree. the Spielzeug Welten Museum (formerly website for dates and details on those in olate or children’s punch. They also can The tractor will be running between 13:30-16:00 on both Puppenhaus Museum) with a delightful Baselland. partake in activities such as candle mak- days and the afternoon will end with an apéro and schnapps miniature Christmas scene is sure to en- ing, gingerbread decorating, pewter figure http://www.marktkalender.ch/ tasting. To participate, you need to register with them by email by chant young and old alike. The square, as making/decorating, glass-blowing, coin suche.aspx?w=&t=9&k=bl December 8 ([email protected]) and indicate the day, num- well as the area around the Barfüsserkirche minting, and metal forging. Each activity ber of people, and number of trees you will be cutting. (church) is lined with 140 stands filled with cost CHF 5-8; you can buy activity tickets Christmas ornaments, wooden toys, hand- Christmas Market in Colmar, France www.mathis-hof.ch at the on-site ticket booth. Open Monday carved puzzles, candles, scarves, jewelry, November 22 – December 31 to Friday from 13:30-19:00, and weekends and hand-made crafts of all kinds, making from 12:00-19:00. Located about 40 minutes from Basel, Flea Market in Pratteln it a great place to pick up some special gifts. Colmar is an exceptionally quaint town You can download the official German/ December 7 and January 4 Another favorite tradition (and way to cre- with old timber houses, artistically crafted English flyer of Basel’s Christmas markets This flea market, small antiques market, and children’s flea ate a personal gift) is to make a candle in store signs, and canals running through from their website: market takes place at Schmittiplatz in Pratteln from the wooden house at the front of the mar- town, reminiscent of a little Venice. As 10:00-16:00. There are also baked goods, farm- ket. The candles are repeatedly dipped into http://issuu.com/basel- Colmar has no large main square, ers’ stands, and food stands. You can get there by hot wax and cooled, which is why you see tourism/docs/christmas the Christmas market is spread out car (there is some parking available) or take tram people swinging candles out of the win- basel?e=2492316/5410391# throughout the town, making it par- 14 to the end of the line (Pratteln Endsta- dow of the little hut. This is a lengthy pro- search ticularly magical with all the Christ- tion) and walk in the direction “Schloss;” cess that may require more than one visit, mas decorations. Open 10:00-19:00 you should already see the market. but if you don’t want to finish in one visit, Sonntagsmarkthalle (Fridays and Saturdays until 21:00). you can have them hang your candle on a December 1, 8, 15, and 22 www.flohmi-schmittiplatz- rack with a number so that you can return pratteln.ch On the four Sundays in Decem- to continue the process. The cost of each Christmas Market in Freiburg, Germany ber (Advent Sundays), the Markthalle in candle is based on its weight. Open from November 25 – December 23 Basel will be hosting a market with flea 11:00-20:00 daily, the market is a great Sunday Brunch & Market market stands, vintage-design, handmade Located approximately 1 hour from place to find that one-of-a-kind gift, enjoy crafts, and culinary highlights. Open each Basel, the Christmas market in Freiburg December 1 and January 5 some local delicacies, and warm-up with a Sunday from 9:00-17:00, you can browse is probably the largest and prettiest Every Sunday from 10:00- cup of Glühwein (mulled spiced wine). or set up your own stand; check their German Christmas market in proximity to 16:00, you can enjoy a plenti- A second Christmas market is set up at website for additional information. Basel. The wares and food are similar to the ful brunch at the SUD, Burg- Münsterplatz. This site is absolutely magi- markets in Switzerland, but at much lower www.sonntagsmarkthalle.ch weg 7, in Basel. On the first cal with its beautifully decorated giant prices. The center of the Christmas mar- Sunday of each month, it Christmas tree and lighted globes hang- ket can get quite crowded on weekends Advent Market is accompanied by a market ing from the trees throughout the square. and therefore may be difficult to navigate where you can buy clothing, December 21 Lined with goods stands, it is also a great with a stroller. Open Monday to Saturday home accessories, toys, jewel- place to pick up special gifts and to indulge Aktienmühle, an old flourmill converted from 10:00-20:30, and Sunday from 11:30- ry, and agricultural products. in some of the traditional foods, such as into a recreation center, will be holding 19:30. (Note that if you go to Freiburg by Raclette, Fondue, Crépes, Flammkuchen (a an Advent market from 12:00-18:00 with car, you need a green German emission www.sud.ch 10 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 11 Get Going! by Nic Oatridge

Resort/Website Ski Area Region Language Snow Time (Public Time Altitude No. of Pistes Adult Day Ski/ Family ‘n Rail? Transport) (Road) Top (m) Lifts (km) Pass Snow- Skiing Ski Season is Here! Skiing for Families in and around Switzerland board Adelboden Adelboden-Lenk Swiss Yes 2 h 35 min 2 h 2362 m 72 210 km CHF 61 4**** 5***** trips by rail or road. Other nearby resorts that are good for If you are spending the winter in Switzerland, www.adelboden.ch Bernese Oberland German beginners and early intermediates include Sörenberg and it is hard NOT to go skiing or snowboarding with all the won- Arosa Arosa-Lenzerheide Swiss Yes 3 h 36 min 3 h 2865 m 42 225 km CHF 69 4**** 5***** Zweisimmen (Gstaad), although you will probably be in a class derful winter sports opportunities that abound throughout the www.arosa.ch Graubünden German country. From Basel, you have many options for family-friend- with German-speakers. Some people might also add Melchsee- Frutt, Engelberg, and Klewenalp to this list, but as much as I Bettmeralp Aletsch Arena Swiss Yes 2 h 38 min 3 h 20 min 2647 m 35 104 km CHF 58 4**** 3*** ly ski resorts for any level of skier and any length of ski trip. Valais German like them I think they have some limitations for inexperienced www.bettmeralp.ch If you are embarking on taking your kids skiing for the first skiers. Again, however, they are all feasible for day trips and Braunwald Eastern Switzerland Swiss Yes 2 h 37 min 2 h 1905 m 8 32 km CHF 48 2** 4**** time I would recommend you enroll them in lessons, whether don’t get too crowded. www.braunwald.ch German you ski or not. Depending on the resort, kids can start these Champéry Les Portes du Soleil French Yes 3 h 57 min 2 h 30 min 2250 m 201 650 km CHF 60 5***** 4**** lessons as early as 3 or 4 years old. A lot of resorts also have day- If you are looking for a ski trip for a weekend or longer, there www.champery.ch Valais care facilities, including, for example, Engelberg, Männlichen are very convenient family hotels in Feldberg and Malbun, as (for Grindelwald), and Wengen. Incidentally, most ski schools well as the youth hostels in Scuol and St Moritz, that are per- Davos Davos Klosters Swiss Yes 3 h 22 min 2 h 45 min 2844 m 52 300 km CHF 68 5***** 2** www.davos.ch Graubünden German in Switzerland participate in the Swiss Snow League, provid- fect for family ski holidays. For self-catering, Interhome (www. ing standardized and portable grading of your level of expertise interhome.ch/en) rent out apartments in or near many re- Engelberg Engelberg-Titlis Swiss Yes 2 h 9 min 1 h 40 min 3020 m 25 82 km CHF 62 3*** 2** throughout the country. sorts. We also like to combine our trips with other activities, so www.engelberg.ch Central Switzerland German resorts with family-friendly restaurants, spas, nice winter walks, For day trips from the Basel area, the Black Forest resort of Feld- Feldberg Black Forest German No 1 h 45 min 1 h 10 min 1493 m 31 55 km € 27 3*** 3*** toboggan runs, and ice rinks figure high in our book. Germany berg is a good choice. It is not particularly high, so the season en.liftverbund-feldberg.de is not as long as for other resorts in the Alps, but there is gen- We usually take public transport on our winter outings and Flims Laax Falera Flims Laax Falera Swiss Yes 2 h 48 min 2 h 30 min 3018 m 29 235 km CHF 73 5***** 4**** erally a good snow cover from Christmas through March. The even with all the gear—including, in our earlier years, a push- www.laax.com Graubünden German chair—we have not found it difficult to get to the resorts. The area can get very busy, so if you drive there you should plan Grindelwald Jungfrau Region Swiss Yes 2 h 38 min 2 h 10 min 2500 m 27 160 km CHF 63 5***** 4**** Swiss Railways offer an excellent program called Snow’n’Rail on arriving very early to be sure of a convenient parking spot, www.grindelwald.ch Bernese Oberland German even during weekdays. Reaching the area by public transport that provides significant discounts on public transport, lift passes, and equipment hire—details are published in English Klewenalp Central Switzerland Swiss Yes 1 h 53 min 1 h 35 min 2001 m 13 40 km CHF 49 3*** 2** is a cinch. You can take the train, which runs every half-hour www.klewenalp.ch German from Basel SBB to Zell (Wiesental), and then take the connect- online at the SBB website starting November 1 (www.sbb.ch/ Klosters Davos Klosters Swiss Yes 2 h 52 min 2 h 30 min 2844 m 52 300 km CHF 68 5***** 2** ing bus, #7300, direction Titisee, and alight at the Feldberger- en/leisure-holidays/day-trips.html). However, if you pre- www.klosters.ch Graubünden German hof stop. Tickets for the train are inexpensive and tend to be fer to drive, do remember to change to winter tires and have cheaper if you buy them at Badischer Bahnhof. You will need chains with you! Leukerbad Valais Swiss Yes 3 h 16 min 3 h 10 min 2610 m 10 52 km CHF 52 3*** 4**** www.leukerbad.ch German to buy the ticket for the bus on the bus—it is only a couple of There are dozens of resorts to choose from in Switzerland and euros for an adult ticket. If you want to hire equipment, the surrounds—far beyond the scope of this article. Therefore, I Meiringen Meiringen–Hasliberg Swiss Yes 2 h 34 min 1 h 30 min 2433 m 13 60 km CHF 55 3*** 4**** Bernese Oberland German Skischule Thoma at the Seebuck area at Feldberg (left-hand side have chosen to focus on options that are good to excellent for www.haslital.ch coming from Basel) is a good choice; they also offer English- families, from the expensive to the not so expensive, with re- Melchsee-Frutt Central Switzerland Swiss Yes 2 h 12 min 1 h 40 min 2255 m 10 32 km CHF 42 3*** 3*** language lessons for the kids at the weekend. sorts for day, weekend, or extended breaks. To find in-depth www.melchsee-frutt.ch German Going further afield, I would recommend Meiringen, Grin- information on all the resorts mentioned here as well as many Mürren Jungfrau Region Swiss Yes 2 h 14 min 2 h 2971 m 13 54 km CHF 63 4**** 2** del-wald, or Wengen for lessons for English-speak- others, visit my English-language website devoted to skiing in www.mymuerren.ch Bernese Oberland German Switzerland at www.swisswintersports.co.uk. ing kids, and they are all feasible for day Nendaz 4 Vallées French Yes 3 h 21 min 2 h 50 min 3330 m 92 412 km CHF 53 5***** 4**** www.nendaz.ch Valais Saas-Fee Saastal Swiss Yes 3 h 10 min 3 h 30 min 3600 m 36 145 km CHF 68 5***** 3*** www.saas-fee.ch Valais German Scuol Graubünden Romansh Yes 3 h 43 min 3 h 30 min 2783 m 14 80 km CHF 55 3*** 2** www.scuol.ch

Sörenberg Sörenberg Swiss Yes 2 h 32 min 1 h 30 min 2350 m 17 53 km CHF 49 3*** 2** www.soerenberg.ch Central Switzerland German St Anton Arlberg German No 4 h 7 min 3 h 10 min 2811 m 43 128 km € 47 5***** 3*** stantonamarlberg.com Tirol/Austria St Moritz/Engadin Engadine Swiss Yes 4 h 25 min 3 h 20 min 3303 m 56 350 km CHF 73 5***** 3*** www.engadin.stmoritz.ch Graubünden German Verbier 4 Vallées French Yes 3 h 21 min 2 h 50 min 3330 m 92 412 km CHF 61 5***** 4**** www.verbier.ch Valais Villars Villars–Les Diablerets French Yes 3 h 31 min 2 h 25 min 3000 m 36 100 km CHF 52 4**** 5***** www.villarsgryon.ch Lake Geneva Region Wengen Jungfrau Region Swiss Yes 2 h 14 min 1 h 50 min 2320 m 19 110 km CHF 63 5***** 3*** Nic Oatridge is an expat who has been living in Basel for 7 years and www.mywengen.ch Bernese Oberland German has been skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland for 30 years. He is the webmaster for an English-language website where you can get Zermatt Matterhorn Ski Swiss Yes 3 h 24 min 3 h 40 min 3899 m 68 350 km CHF 86 5***** 4**** terrific information and tips on ski opportunities in Switzerland and www.zermatt.ch Paradise Valais German beyond: http://www.swisswintersports.co.uk Zweisimmen Gstaad Mountain Rides Swiss Yes 2 h 19 min 2 h 2008 m 19 85 km CHF 62 3*** 2** Bernese Oberland German photo credit: © nic oatridge credit: photo

12 DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 13 Basel Traditions by Susanne Hiller

Dreikönigstag (Three-Kings Day)

The end of the Christmas season is marked by Three-Kings Day, also called Epiphany, on January 6. In some countries, including some of the Swiss cantons (Schwyz, Uri, Ticino) and the neighboring region of southern Germany, Three-Kings Day is a public holiday. In Basel, however, it is a regular work day, although it is associated with some traditions you may come to appreciate.

The Religious Background that almost every household in the country buys at least one of these cakes! Three-Kings Day represents the day that, according to the gospel of Matthew, wise men, or kings, visited the Baby Jesus Of course you can also make your own cake, and if you don’t at his birth place in Bethlehem to worship him, bearing gifts have a little plastic king left over from last year, you can also use of gold, myrrh, and frankincense and guided by the light of a any other small plastic figure or even a coin instead. If you would particularly bright star. The exact number and heritage of these like to be as authentic as possible, check with your local bakery— wise men, or Magi, has never been specified, but because three they may have these figures in stock and be able to sell you one. gifts were mentioned, it was assumed there were three wise Another tradition that you may come across here is the men as well. Subsequently they were given the names Caspar, “Sternensingen” (star boys’ singing). You will find it in pre- Melchior, and Balthasar, although in other countries they may dominantly Catholic areas where it is organized by the church be known by different names. One of them is traditionally parishes. For this, groups of three children, dressed up as depicted as dark skinned, although their countries of origin also the three kings, go to people’s homes between December 27 have not been specified. and January 6 to sing special songs in return for charitable donations. They also say a prayer to bless the home, which Current Traditions is indicated by the letters 20*C+M+B+14, written in chalk above the house’s front door. The letters represent not only The most commonly found the names of the three kings, but also the saying “Christus tradition associated with Three- mansionem benedicat” (Christ bless this house). Kings Day in this area is the baking and eating of a Dreikönig- skuchen (Three-Kings cake), which is Basel’s Three Kings especially popular with the kids. Its origins date back to the 16th century. The cake is made from sweetened yeast dough Of course you can see the Three Kings in Basel not only on that is formed into several balls, which are arranged in a flower January 6 but year round—on the façade of the eponymous hotel shape before baking. One of these balls contains a small plastic at the Schifflände. This hotel has a long history dating back to figure representing a king. To eat the cake, each family member 1681, when it was first mentioned under this name. Since then, breaks off one of the balls, and whoever gets the one with the the property has undergone numerous changes, expansions, and little figure is now the “king (or queen) for the day.” Youcan renovations until it was restored to its current form in 2004- buy these cakes at all supermarkets and bakeries, where they 2006. It is widely considered the best hotel in Basel and has host- are sold with a gold paper crown that the “king” gets to wear to ed such luminaries as Napoleon, Queen Elizabeth II, and Pablo signify his (or her) position. These cakes are so popular, that Picasso. The statues of the Three Kings that you see on the hotel’s according to Wikipedia around 1.5 million of them are produced façade have been watching over the guests since the middle of the each year in Switzerland, and only around January 6. This means 18th century.

14 www.baselfamilymagazine.com NOVEMBERDECEMBER 2013 2013 www.BASELFAMILYMAGAZINE.com

MAGAZINE

Ongoing Events / December 2013 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Angel Exhibit >> Panto – “Beauty and the Beast” Museum der Kulturen, Basel DEC 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 >> Children’s Theater –“Cinderella” Nov. 22 – Jan. 5 >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> St. Nikolaus Day >> Santas on Motorbikes >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Niggi Näggi at the Basel Zoo >> Panto – “Beauty and the Beast” >> Panto – “Beauty and the Beast” >> Basler Mineralientage Nativity Set Exhibition >> Children’s Theater –“Pinocchio” >> European Outdoor Film Tour >> Children’s Theater – “Pinocchio” >> Children’s Theater – “Pinocchio” >> English Comedy >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” Heilsarmee, Basel >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Kid’s Opera – “Hänsel & Gretel” >> Kid’s Opera – “Hänsel & Gretel” >> AFTER HOURS: Chillen im Museum >> Winter Circus >> Flea Market in Pratteln Nov. 27 – Dec. 4 >> Niggi Näggi at Lange Erlen >> Tell Me a Story in Arabic >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Voices of Gospel >> Christmas Tram >> Knight Activities for Kids >> BaZ hilft Christmas Concert >> Family Play at Play4you >> Storytelling with Puppets in Italian >> Palazzo Colombino >> Santichlaus Ylüte in Liestal >> Guided Christmas Tour Christmas Ferry >> Brunch and Market at SUD >> Palazzo Colombino >> English Storytelling >> Voices of Gospel >> Baking Workshop >> Sonntagsmarkthalle >> Palazzo Colombino >> Christmas Caroling >> Christmas Ball Basel >> Free Ice Skating Day! >> Family Concert >> Voices of Gospel Nov. 28 – Dec. 23 >> Marilyn Monroe Workshop >> Winter Circus >> Palazzo Colombino >> Gospel Night >> Baking Workshop >> Christmas Tram >> Musical –“Fame” Regionale 14 Various locations >> Kid’s Opera – “Hänsel & Gretel” >> One Million Stars Nov. 28 – Jan. 5 8 >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” 9 10 11 12 13 14 >> Snow White Ballet >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Children’s Theater –“Bambi” Basler Wunschbuch >> Messiah – Mitsingkonzert >> Bookworms – English / German >> Christmas Tram >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater –“Cinderella” >> Panto – “Beauty and the Beast” >> Tour of “Métamatic Reloaded” >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Christmas Tram >> Christmas Tram >> Children’s Theater –“Pinocchio” Basel >> Basler Mineralientage >> Family Play at Play4you >> Kids’ Lab >> Make Scented Christmas Gifts >> Lord of the Dance >> Guided Christmas Tour Nov. 28 – Jan 6 >> Sonntagsmarkthalle >> Palazzo Colombino >> Storytelling in Albanian and German >> Cirque du Soleil – “Dralion” >> Cirque du Soleil – “Dralion” >> Marilyn Monroe Workshop >> Tour of Thomas Schütte Exhibit >> Cirque du Soleil – “Dralion” >> Palazzo Colombino >> Knight Activities for Kids Christmas Park at St. Claraspital >> Tour of Piet Mondrian Exhibit >> Baking Workshop Basel >> Science for Families / Kid’s Lab >> Winter Circus >> Palazzo Colombino Nov. 30 – Jan. 6 >> Winter Circus >> Baking Workshop >> Christmas Tram >> Dance Night >> Christmas Tram >> Palazzo Colombino >> Katie Melua >> Dralion Christmas, Sweet and Crunchy >> Family Concert Spielzeug Welten Museum, Basel Nov. 30 – Feb. 9 >> Shopping on Sunday 15 >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” 16 17 18 19 20 21 >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Snow White Ballet >> Tell me a Story in Arabic >> Christmas Tram >> Christmas Tram >> Christmas Tram >> Nutcraker Ballet Literary and Musical Advent >> Children’s Theater –“Pinocchio” >> Family Play at Play4you >> Children’s Theater –“Cinderella” >> Christmas Tattoo Basel >> Snow White Ballet >> Children’s Theater –“Cinderella” Calendar >> Jens Hanke Exhibit Apéro >> Christmas Tattoo Basel >> Christmas Tattoo Basel >> Winter Circus >> Winter Circus >> Children’s Theater –“Bambi” Theater Basel >> Sonntagsmarkthalle >> Alan Parsons Live Project >> Kids’ Lab >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Winter Circus Dec. 1-23 >> Marilyn Monroe Workshop >> Musical –“Fame” >> The Nutcracker Ballet >> Harlem Gospel Singers Show >> Christmas Tram >> Tour of “Real Castles – Imaginary Knights” >> Palazzo Colombino >> English Comedy >> Palazzo Colombino >> Advent Market Basel Christmas Markets >> Family Play-Sunday at Play4you >> Palazzo Colombino >> Guided Christmas Tour Nov. 28 – Dec. 23 >> Concert – “The Book of Disquiet” >> Knight Activities for Kids >> Christmas Tram >> Musical –“Fame” >> Baking Workshop >> Tuba Christmas >> Dralion >> Palazzo Colombino >> Baking Workshop >> Palazzo Colombino 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 >> Shopping on Sunday >> Snow White Ballet >> Swan Lake Ballet >> Kid’s Opera – “Hänsel & Gretel” >> Marilyn Monroe Workshop >> Christmas Tram >> Palazzo Colombino >> Snow White Ballet >> Top Volley International 2013 >> Children’s Theater –“Pinocchio” >> Children’s Theater –“Pinocchio” >> The Grand Giuseppe Verdi Gala >> Musical –“Fame” >> Children’s Theater – “Cinderella” >> Palazzo Colombino >> Palazzo Colombino >> Palazzo Colombino >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Winter Circus >> Sonntagsmarkthalle >> “Why Do We Decorate Christmas Trees?” >> Baking Workshop >> Palazzo Colombino 29 30 31 JAN 1 2 3 4 >> Kid’s Opera – “Hänsel & Gretel” >> Snow White Ballet >> Children’s Theater – “Bambi” >> Swan Lake Family Ballet >> New Year’s Eve Concert CALENDAR COLOR KEY >> Top Volley International 2013 >> Choir and Brass Ensemble at Münsterplatz IMPORTANT NUMBERS Poison Center: 145 >>Basel Events >> Marilyn Monroe Workshop >> Dance Night SOS: 112 >> Palazzo Colombino >> Musical –“Fame” A Hand in Need: 143 >>Markets and Fairs >> Palazzo Colombino Police: 117 >>Sports and Recreation >> Fireworks start at 00:30 Child/Teen Helpline: 147 Fire Department: 118 >>Workshops, Tours, and Education Emergency Doctor / Dentist (24 hr./ 365) >>Entertainment: Parents’ Night Out Ambulance: 144 061 261 1515 >>Did You Know? Workshops, Tours, and Education

Classes for Kids with clichés. The Historisches Muse- um Basel (Basel Historical Museum) at In these cold winter months, perhaps Barfüsserplatz is hosting an exhibit en- your children would be interested in titled “Echte Burgen—Falsche Ritter?” developing their artistic or creative side? (Real castles—imaginary knights?)” that kwerk offers a variety of classes for kids focuses on how knights and the castles ages 6-16. There is something for every- they inhabited have been idealized over one, including painting, cartoon illustrat- the centuries. Using an informative and ing, trick-film, video, drawing, interior entertaining approach, it presents the design, photography, experimentation, latest findings of medieval historians to printing, and web-design. You can find examine where reality ends and fantasy a complete list of classes, dates, times, begins, from the first knights to Batman locations, and age, and even register, on & Co., from primitive wooden fortresses their website. New classes start in January. to the turreted castles of fairy tales. www.kwerk.ch December 7, 14, and 21: Knight activities for kids—Every Saturday afternoon from Guided Christmas Tours in Basel Marilyn Monroe Workshop 14:00-16:30 during the Christmas mar- November 30, December 7, 14, and 21 December 1, 14, 15, 28, and 29 ket season, the museum will host events January 4, 5, 25, and 26 These German-language walking tours all about knights for children ages 5-12. throughout the Christmas season in “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” sings Activities will include living the knight’s Basel include the best views of Christ- Marilyn Monroe in the movie “Gentle- lifestyle, building castles, and making a mas trees and lights, ornaments, and an- men Prefer Blondes.” In this workshop coat of arms or medieval jewelry. There gels, as well as stories about the history, at the Spielzeug Welten Museum, Basel, will be guided tours of the exhibit in customs, and traditions of Christmas in kids ages 6 and up can decorate a “Mari- German every half hour. Children can Basel. The tours start at 16:00 each Satur- lyn” puzzle made of wooden letters with join at any time in the afternoon, no pre- day and last approximately 90 min. They pearls, rhinestones, and gold ribbons registration is required; cost is CHF 8. start at the Tinguely fountain and end at to make it sparkle, just like in the song. December 15: English Tour of the exhibit Schifflände. Space is limited, so reserve Participation is free and participants can starting at 11:15. early at the Tourist Information office at take their creations home. No registra- www.hmb.ch Barfüsserplatz; cost is CHF 15 for adults tion is required, although you may need and CHF 7.50 for children up to age 16. to wait for a turn. www.basel.com www.spielzeug-welten-museum- Tour of the Piet Mondrian–Barnett basel.ch Newman–Dan Flavin Exhibition December 8 Baking Workshop The Kunstmuseum Basel is offering a December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22 Blue-Print Workshop guided tour for the whole family in Eng- December 7 and 8 In conjunction with the special exhib- lish through the special exhibit of the it on Christmas cookies and cakes, the In this 2-day workshop, kids ages 10-16 three modern artists Piet Mondrian, Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel will be are invited to discover the magic of the Barnett Newman, and Dan Flavin, from holding several baking workshops where cyanotype. This technique, also called 11:00-12:00. Price is regular admission participants can prepare dough, cut out blue print for the special blue effect, was plus CHF 5 for the tour. cookies and other sweets, bake, and discovered by the English scientist and www.kunstmuseumbasel.ch take them home afterwards. Workshops astronomer Sir John Herschel. With this are every Saturday and Sunday from technique, absorbent paper is bathed in 13:30-17:30, from the end of November a special solution and dried, which cre- Science for Families until Christmas. Entrance to the museum ates a light-sensitive coating. By placing December 8 and January 12 costs CHF 7 for adults, children up to 16 templates on the paper, such as plants, The University of Basel has a German- are free when accompanied by an adult. hands, feet, or even the whole body (the language program designed to stimulate There is no extra cost for the workshop. limit is the imagination), and exposing families’ interest in science. Café Scienti- www.spielzeug-welten-museum- it to UV light, a magical image will ap- fique takes place one Sunday per month basel.ch pear on the paper: a photogram. Cost for from 15:00-17:00, with specialists in this 2-day German-language workshop various fields of research giving talks in is CHF 90; register on their website. a relaxed café atmosphere. You can ask www.kwerk.ch questions, join in discussions, or simply listen and learn. There is no fee and no registration required. Simply show up at Real Castles—Imaginary Knights? the Universität Basel, Totengässlein 3 in December 7, 14, 15, and 21 Basel. Glinting armor, long swords, roman- December 8: The December topic is tic castles, and minstrels—our images “Kohlenstoff—Materie ohne Grenzen. of the chivalric way of life are riddled Vom Karbon-Velorahmen bis zur Anti-

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 19 Workshops, Tours, and Education (continued)

Aging-Crème” (Carbon—Matter without helping and healing). How does a doc- Make Scented Christmas Gifts Bookworms Program—English Jukibu Intercultural Library Events limits. From carbon bike frames to anti- tor figure out what a patient is suffering December 12 January 28 aging creams). Carbon has the greatest from? How does one best help an injured Jukibu is a multi-cultural library that houses From 14:30-17:00, kids Bibliothek Basel West is hosting a book diversity of all chemical elements and person? In this workshop, kids will learn books for children and adolescents in over can make unique fra- group for babies and toddlers ages 9 its practical applications are unlimited. about the daily work of doctors, and will 50 languages, their largest collection be- grant Christmas pres- months to 4 years and their caregivers The talk will focus on current research try their hand at being junior doctors. ing English-language books. Below is the ents for friends and with nursery rhymes and stories that conducted on complex carbon modifica- December and January schedule of the http://cafe.unibas.ch/kidslab/programm/ family, such as hand are read, spoken, and sung in English. tions, the so-called fullerenes, which are foreign-language events organized at the creams, body butter, lip Participation is free and no registra- suitable for making artificial diamonds library for families. To learn more or become balms, and scented waters. All tion is required. From 10:00-10:30 at as well as products such as anti-aging Tour of the Fondation Beyeler a member, visit their website. www.jukibu.ch are made from vegetable fats, oils, and Allschwilerstrasse 90 in Basel. creams. December 8 and January 19 essences so they are nice on the skin, and January 12: The January topic is ”Der Kleine www.stadtbibliothekbasel.ch The Fondation Beyeler will be giving are packaged in attractive jars and bottles. Date Time Event Suitable for… Unterschied und seine Grossen Folgen. a public tour (15:00-16:00) in English This German-language workshop is for a Geschlechtsspezifische Unterschiede in of the temporary exhibit featuring the parent and a child and costs CHF 72 plus Cocktails at the Museum December 3 16:30-18:00 Tell me a story in Arabic Parents with toddlers der Medizin” (The little difference and its works of German artist Thomas Schütte. CHF 25 for materials for two persons. January 30 December 4 10:00-11:00 English storytelling (with BCT) Parents with toddlers big consequences. Gender differences in Admission is CHF 25 for adults (CHF 50 You can register online on their website medicine). Mental and physical diseases In conjunction with the exhibit “The for the whole family with Familienpass), under “Familienkurse,” by clicking on December 4 15:30-16:00 Storytelling with puppets in Italian Primary school children / parents ‘Stronger Sex’ in Antiquity,” the Anti- can affect men and women differently. CHF 6 for kids ages 11-19, and free for “Anmelden” for workshop number 44. While men have a higher risk of alcohol kenmuseum Basel is offering an evening kids under 11. The tour costs an addi- www.peb-basel.ch December 7 10:30-11:30 Storytelling in French and German Primary school children / parents and drug abuse, women suffer more from tional CHF 7. of short tours and cocktails from 18:00- fear, eating disorders, and depression, 22:00. The exhibition traces an ancient December 11 15:30-16:00 Storytelling in Albanian and German Primary school children /parents www.fondationbeyeler.ch and are twice as likely to commit suicide. Athenian on the journey through life Xenakis, Polytopes and the Actions of Why is that? from childhood to death. Original ob- December 17 16:30-18:00 Tell me a story in Arabic Parents with toddlers Perception—Talk by Chris Salter http://cafe.unibas.ch/cafe/pro- Tour of the Tinguely Museum jects from ancient times are contrasted January 9 Jan 6 – Mar 1 Lesewinter: Puzzle fun in all libraries in Basel Primary school children gramm/ December 10 with contemporary ones. A German tour begins at 19:00 and an English tour You are invited to join a short, guided The Vitra Design Museum in Weil am January 8 10:00-11:00 English storytelling (with BCT) Parents with toddlers starts at 19:30; admission cost of CHF 5 Kids Lab tour in English of the current exhibit Rhein (Germany) is presenting a multi- media installation by the Canadian artist includes the tour and admission to the January 18 10:00-11:30 Tell me a story in Albanian Parents with toddlers The University of Basel organizes three “Métamatic Reloaded” at the Tinguely Chris Salter that creates an atmospheri- cocktail bar. workshops per month (in German) where Museum starting at 13:00. Admission to cally dense and mysterious experience of www.antikenmuseumbasel.ch January 25 10:00-11:30 Tell me a story in Albanian Parents with toddlers children ages 6-13 can explore a topic the museum costs CHF 15 for adults; free light and sound, entitled “N Polytope.” In related to the month’s Café Scientifique. for kids 16 and under when accompa- conjunction with this exhibition, Salter Children can attend the Kids Lab on Sun- nied by an adult, otherwise CHF 10. Cost talks about his interest in the work of the day, at the same time as the adult Café of tour is included in the entrance fee. Greek composer and architect Iannis Xe- Scientifique talk (15:00-17:00) or on one www.tinguely.ch nakis. In the 1960s and ’70s, Xenakis de- the following two Wednesdays from veloped the idea of a “Polytope,” a new 14:00-16:00. Bookworms Program—English/German type of spatial entity that integrated light, December 8, 11, and 18: This month’s topic music, and architecture. Salter explains December 10 and January 14 is “Kohlenstoff: Baustein für alle Fälle” his new artistic interpretation of Xenakis’s (Carbon: the building blocks for every- Bibliothek Basel West is hosting a book approach. The talk is at 18:00, admission thing). Carbon is in our bodies, plants, group for babies and toddlers ages 9 is free, and no registration is required. animals, petroleum, and in its purest months to 3 years and their caregivers www.design-museum.de form in diamonds. Carbon is also an with nursery rhymes, finger plays, action important element of plastic. In this stories, singing, and picture books in workshop, kids will discover what makes English and German. Participation is free Guided Tour of St. Jakob-Park carbon so special, and they will be able to of charge and no registration is required. create their own plastic toy. From 10:00-10:30 at Allschwilerstrasse January 18 & 25 90 in Basel. January 12, 15, and 22: The January topic The PEB is inviting adults with primary is called “Vom Helfen und Heilen” (On www.stadtbibliothekbasel.ch school-age children to discover the St. Jakob stadium in all its diversity: visit the EURO stadium, peek into the VIP Why Do We Decorate Christmas Trees? rooms, the media room, and the sacred December 22 catacombs. Afterwards you can enjoy the The Museum für Wohnkultur at the Haus zum walk through the legendary “Senftube” Krischgarten is inviting families with kids ages 5 and (mustard tube), towards the playing field. up on a German-language tour about the Christmas Each tour takes place on a Saturday af- tree. You will examine the various festively decorated ternoon and costs CHF 20 for adults and trees, talk about why we actually decorate trees, how it CHF 10 per child. You can register online was done in the early days, and what tree decorations on their website under “Familienkurse,” historically were made of. Tour costs CHF 13 for adults, by clicking on “Anmelden” for workshop kids under 13 are free. No registration necessary. number 46. www.peb-basel.ch

20 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 21 Did You Know...?

Christmas Shopping In Basel New Rule for E-Bikes in Basel’s City Center Starting January 1, 2014 With the upcoming peak of the annual shopping season, here Christmas Shopping at the Mall: If you prefer to shop in a Following much confusion about whether electric bikes are some tips on where and how you can best accomplish mall, the “Stücki Shoppingcenter Basel” may be what you are (E-bikes) with yellow license plates would be banned on streets your holiday purchases. looking for. The mall offers an immense underground park- in Basel’s city center, the final word is that they will continue ing, over 100 stores to choose from, and a large food court Christmas Markets: The main Christmas market in Basel as to be permitted on the signposted cycling routes through the with choices to suit the whole family’s palate. There is also well as the smaller ones in surrounding communities offer city, as long as their motor is turned off (in which case they an inexpensive drop-off childcare play center (Kids Stücki a magical atmosphere and are a great place to enjoy some are considered no different from regular bicycles). Riding such Jungle) that will allow you to shop without the watchful eyes traditional seasonal food and drinks. They are also a great E-bikes with the motor on can incur a fine. This entire discus- of the children. place to find one-of-a-kind handmade and traditional gifts, sion came as a surprise to Basel’s E-bike owners—including from wooden toys and puzzles, to sheep-skin slippers, scarves, www.stuecki-shopping.ch the head of Basel’s city government, Guy Morin, who rides to jewelry, candles, and so much more. Basel’s work daily on his E-bike—as the canton of Basel Stadt encour- Christmas markets are open seven days a Childcare While Shopping: If you are aged their citizens to purchase E-bikes and subsidized their week until December 23, providing a good Christmas shopping in town and would purchase with funds provided by the Amt für Umwelt und range of shopping hours. Smaller markets like to do so without the watchful eyes Energie (Department for Environment and Energy) to the tune in surrounding communities often are of your children, consider dropping of almost CHF 2 million from 2000-2012. The new rule only open only for one weekend, so check your them off at the Kindernäscht, a pro- applies to E-bikes that sport a yellow license plate as these community’s announcements. fessional and flexible childcare facility can reach speeds above 25 km/h and are therefore no longer Extra Hours for Basel’s Downtown Shops: on Gerbergasse, in the center of town considered light motor bikes. E-bikes that This year, Basel’s retailers will stay open (near Coop City). For kids ages 2-12, don’t require a yellow license plate are until 22:00 on Thursday, November 28. you pay by child and hour; siblings exempt from this rule and continue to Additionally, they will be open for busi- pay less. No registration is necessary, be permitted to ride on the sign-posted ness on the two Sundays leading up but if you would like to pre-register, cycling routes through the city with to Christmas, December 15 and 22, from 13:00 to 18:00, you can call them at 061-261-4939, or email them at info@ the motor turned on. These new making a stroll through the city and Christmas shopping an kindernaescht.ch. Familienpass cardholders receive a discount. rules are part of the plan, delayed enticing prospect. In addition, the city’s restaurants will be of- Open weekdays from 9:00-18:00, Saturdays from 9:00-17:00, by lawsuits, to make an expand- fering seasonal delicacies and fine wines during those times. and shopping Sundays from 13:00-18:00. ed area of Basel’s center a pedes- trian zone off limits to cars and www.proinnerstadt.ch www.kindernaescht.ch motorbikes. photo credit: © basel tourismus © basel credit: photo Getting Rid of Your Christmas Tree Securing Your Home While on Holidays Unlike getting rid of other unwanted items in Switzerland, get- Christmas time (including November, December, and January) ting rid of a Christmas tree is easy! In Basel, you can simply is sadly a big season for break-ins into private homes as so many put it out on the curb next to your garbage bag at 7:00 on the people visit family or go on vacation during this time and because morning that regular trash is normally picked up in your neigh- of the limited daylight hours. The Kantonspolizei Basel-Stadt borhood. No part of it can be longer than 1.5 meters (roughly 5 offers several tips on how to lessen your chances of becoming feet), so if it is taller than that, you may want to saw it in half. a victim of a break-in this holiday season: In Basel Stadt, this service is available for free the entire month • Make sure that all the windows, doors, side entrances, basement of January, so if you want to put up a real Christmas tree, go for windows, and skylights of your home are secure. Balconies are an it! Note that other communities may schedule a particular day especially popular route of entry! for the free pickup of your tree. • Be sure that external buildings, such as a garage, do not provide easy access to burglars. The English Show on RADIO X • Do not leave a note on your door or mailbox advertising your The English Show has been absence. broadcasting since 2001 on • Do not let your mailbox become overfilled; ask a neighbor to Basel’s Radio X, which can periodically empty the mailbox or organize at the post-office to be found at FM 94.5, and have your mail stopped during your absence (this should be done via PodCast every Tuesday at least 7-10 days in advance). night at 18:30. The 90-min- • If you regularly receive packages, milk, or produce, organize a ute program is always live neighbor to receive goods in your absence. and is hosted and organized • Do not hide any keys in your garden, mailbox, flowerpots, or under by English-speaking expats the doormat. living in Basel. Its pur- pose is to provide a fun, interesting forum to disseminate • Install a couple of timers on your light switches that will turn lights information about events, cultural highlights, profession- on and off in the evening, giving the impression that you are home. al and amateur sports, and of course music in Basel and the • Do not leave a message on your answering machine or social media surrounding areas that appeal to fellow English-speaking announcing your absence. inhabitants of the region. The English Show is the only • Notify a neighbor about your vacation and ask them to keep radio show in the region and about the region that is broadcast an eye on your home during your absence and to notify police and PodCast in English. You can find further information about at 117 or 112 if they notice anything or anyone suspicious.

photo credit: © radio x credit: photo the program at www.theenglishshow.com.

22 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 23 INFORMATION DESK

learn basic words, verbs in present tense, the test, with CDs and sample tests to use Sprechen Sie Deutsch? simple sentences, etc. If you can already as guides. Basel has become an international city with so formulate simple sentences and can get by many services offered in English and other foreign with very simple German, you may want High German versus Swiss German languages, that it is now entirely possible to live to start with an A2 level. The basic order It is highly recommended that you take here without actually learning the language of the of classes from beginners to advanced is High German (Hochdeutsch) before tak- land. However, understanding and speaking Ger- A1 — A2 — B1 — B2 — C1 — C2. man really does enhance your expat experience, ing Swiss German. When you have a ba- Course Provider / Website Address / Contact information Specialties Lessons Group Individual Lessons Classes Saturday Childcare Conversation Swiss German Class Certificate Prep Center Test allowing you to communicate with locals in day-to- sic command of German, you could then day situations (teachers, doctors, delivery person- Private or Group Lessons enroll in a Swiss German class, where Gempenstrasse 27, Basel A1–B2, ABSM you will learn the fundamental differ- 061 361 8588 individual nel, landlord, store clerks, etc.) and form friend- Group lessons are a good way to start www.absm.ch 3 3 3 3 3 ences between German and the regional [email protected] job-counseling ships with neighbors, colleagues, and people that learning German and a great way to you meet in your daily lives. And if that isn’t rea- dialects. Academia Sprach- und Schifflände 3, Basel Telc-testing, meet other expats. It is often more mo- son enough, learning a new language, like prob- Lernzentrum 061 260 2020 pronunciation 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 tivating to come to class and be lem solving, memory Conversation Classes www.academia-basel.ch [email protected] classes prepared when you are working Vogelsangstr. 15, Basel tests, and quizzes, is Allgemeine A1–C2, with others, in the same way that Practice makes perfect! Once you have 061 695 6111 the equivalent of put- Gewerbeschule Telc-testing 3 3 3 3 3 ting your brain on a following an exercise or diet pro- learned some common words, verbs, and www.agsbs.ch [email protected] gram is easier with a buddy. Pri- simple sentence structure, it is really im- Weisse Gasse 6, Basel mini-treadmill! Arcadia Sprachschule Basel A1–C2, intensive, vate lessons are ideal if you are portant that you practice what you have 061 263 1015 www.arcadia-schule.ch vocational 3 3 3 3 3 3 There are many differ- working and your time is limited; learned. It is the only way to go from learn- [email protected] ent types of German many teachers will come to your ing and understanding German to actu- Intercultural, classes, from learning workplace to accommodate your ally being able to speak the language. Put Ausländerdienst Bahnhofst. 16, Pratteln communication, grammar, to conversa- Baselland ald pronunciation busy schedule. Private lessons are your pride in your pocket and talk with 061 827 9900 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 tion, and even integra- www.auslaenderdienstbl.ch [email protected] training, writing also good if you are a particularly anyone who will listen. Conversation tion classes that teach workshop fast learner or if you want to tailor classes are great avenues for this as all par- you about the culture Dufourstrasse 49, Basel Intensive-, Bénédict-Schule Basel as well as provide practical information on top- your lessons to your specific learn- ticipants are in a similar position and you 061 284 9686 business-, www.benedict-basel.ch 3 3 3 3 3 3 ics such as post, garbage-recycling, school sys- ing needs or knowledge gaps. have the guidance of a group leader who [email protected] children’s class can help or correct your speech. Conver- tem, health care, and much more. Private lessons Berlitz School of Gerbergasse 4, Basel A1–B2, are more expensive but can cater more directly Deutsch Tests sation classes are highly recommended in Languages 061 226 9040 day/evening 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 to your specific needs. Many companies provide conjunction with, or as a break between, [email protected] e-learning If you are taking classes for personal rea- www.berlitz.ch funds towards German lessons for employees German grammar levels. And if you find Clarastrasse 17, Basel Pronunciation, sons, you need not sit for tests. If, how- ECAP Basel and their families; check with your employer for a group in which you feel comfortable, it 061 690 9626 German for ever, you are taking German classes with www.ecap.ch/Basel 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 details. Some organizations also receive govern- can actually be a lot of fun! [email protected] professionals ment subsidies and can therefore offer classes the goal of achieving a particular level (eg, for a job or to apply for citizenship), Gemeinde Riehen Wettsteinstr. 1, Riehen Intensive for at reduced prices, as well as classes that can ac- The following table of German classes women, practical 061 646 8251 3 3 commodate cultural or individual needs, such as you will need to register for a German offered in the Basel area was assembled www.riehen.ch info for Riehen women-only classes, classes with childcare, and certification test. You can write these at from information provided by the GGG any level by registering for them online A1–C1, literacy classes. So if your New Year’s resolution Ausländerberatung (Foreign Consultant Eisengasse 5, Basel GGG Kurse rebates for is to learn or improve your German, read on to in advance. There are two main certifi- Agency), an organization devoted to 061 261 8063 unemployed, www.ggg-kurse.ch 3 3 3 3 find out what type of class may be most suitable cations: the one offered by the Goethe helping foreigners with a variety of dif- [email protected] au-pairs & for you. Institute, which is more expensive but ferent needs. If you are still not sure what students known worldwide, and the Telc, which type of German class would be right for A1–C2, Dufourstrasse 50, Basel is equally good but more locally recog- you, they are available to help you find inlingua Sprachschule semi- and Deutsch Levels 061 278 9933 nized. These tests can be rather expensive intensive-class, 3 3 3 3 3 3 what you need in 16 languages. Contact www.inlingua.ch [email protected] small groups If you are enrolling in a German class and require a few months of preparation. them at 061-206-9222. for the first time, you should consider You can take preparatory classes and/or Gundeldingerstr. 161, Basel Income-related taking an A1-level class. Here you will purchase books to help prepare you for www.auslaenderberatung-basel.ch K5 Basler Kurszentrum 061 365 9020 price reduction, 3 3 3 3 3 3 www.k5kurszentrum.ch [email protected] integration class

Jurastrasse 4, Basel A2–C2, Klubschule Migros 058 575 8700 integration events 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 www.klubschule.ch [email protected]

Elisabethenanlage 9, Basel A1–C2, NSH Bildungszentrum 061 270 9797 Intensive, 3 3 3 3 3 www.nsh.ch [email protected] evening classes

Leonhardstrasse 38, Basel Tutoring, Sprachstudio Severin 061 281 8540 Human Emotional www.sprachstudio-severin.ch 3 3 3 3 [email protected] Method

Verein Mitenander Kornfeldstrasse 52, Riehen A1–B2, vorwärts 078 845 9579 Women, Evening 3 3 3 3 3 www.mvdk.ch [email protected] Subsidized classes Volkshochschule beider Kornhausgasse 2, Basel Workshop classes Basel 061 269 8666 for B1, C1 & C2 3 3 3 3 3 www.vhsbb.ch [email protected]

24 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 25 Sports and Recreation

SPORTS schedule: dec 2013/jan 2014 Top Volley International 2013 December 27-29 EHC Basel Sharks (Eishockey / Ice Hockey) This three-day women’s volleyball tourna- ment will see top female athletes competing Orange: Home Game @ St. Jakob Arena for titles and top prizes in the 25th edition Date Time Home team Guests of the Women’s Top Volley Internation- al. There are six participating teams from Tue., Dec. 3 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks EHC Visp France, Brazil, Turkey, Switzerland, Roma- Sat. Dec. 7 17:30 EHC Olten EHC Basel Sharks nia, and Poland. Can the team of RC Cannes win the Women’s Top Volley International Tue., Dec.10 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks GCK Lion for the sixth time? The tournament, with its high-class field of competitors that will Thu., Dec. 12 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks SLC Tigers ensure exciting volleyball action, will be Tue., Dec. 17 20:00 HC Red Ice Martigny EHC Basel Sharks held at the St. Jakobshalle; entrance is free throughout the tournament. Sat., Dec. 21 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks HC La Chaux-de-Fonds www.topvolley.ch Mon., Dec. 23 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks HC Thurgau Fri., Dec. 27 20:00 SC Langenthal EHC Basel Sharks photo credit: © women’s top volley international volley top women’s © credit: photo Free Ice Skating Day (Gratis ufs Glattys) information, contact them at 061-421- yoga, mindfulness, martial arts, medita- Sun., Dec. 29 16:00 EHC Basel Sharks HC Ajoie December 1 8329 or info@aikidoschule-sanshinkai- tion, and even yodeling! There are also Thu., Jan. 2 20:00 EHC Visp EHC Basel Sharks basel.ch. excursions, cooking classes, as well as The Sportamt (Sports Department) Basel- classes geared specifically to immigrants. Sun., Jan. 5 16:00 EHC Basel Sharks EHC Olten Stadt and are inviting www.aikidoschule-sanshinkai- mixyourlife.ch New classes start in January. For a com- everyone to spend a day on thin ice. basel.ch Tue., Jan. 7 20:00 GCK Lions EHC Basel Sharks plete list of courses available, go to their They will be offering free entrance and website, click on “Kursprogramm” and Sat., Jan. 11 19:45 SCL Tigers EHC Basel Sharks even free ice skate rentals to everyone Play4you, Oberwil download the “Kursprogramm” flyer. at both Eglisee and St. Margarethen ice Tue., Jan. 14 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks HC Red Ice Martigny Play4you offers fun for the whole fam- rinks. Members of the regional ice sports www.gsuenderbasel.ch ily with classic and modern games of all Sat., Jan. 18 20:00 HC La Chaux-de-Fonds EHC Basel Sharks clubs have volunteered to provide a var- kinds. Most games are self-explanatory, ied entertainment program at both ice Tue., Jan. 21 20:00 EHC Visp EHC Basel Sharks but there is always a friendly staff on rinks; Eislaufclub Beider Basel will show hand to show, explain, help and even Sat., Jan. 25 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks SC Langenthal you tips and tricks to improve your skat- play with you. Address: Alte Ziegelei in ing and EHC Sharks players will sign Tue., Jan. 28 20:00 EHC Olten EHC Basel Sharks Oberwil, Hohestrasse 134, Atelier M12. autographs and get on the ice to play Fri., Jan. 31 20:00 EHC Basel Sharks HC Ajoie pick-up hockey with you. In addition, Familien Spieltreff: They are open every Tuesday evening from 17:00-19:00 dur- the rink at St. Margarethen will offer Sharks Tickets: Cat 1: CHF 35 • Cat 2: CHF 30 • Standing Room (Adults): CHF 18 trial curling and an ice show that all are ing the colder months for family play. Students (up to age 24): CHF 15 • Kids Ages 6 - 16: CHF 8 invited to take part in. For a list of times Entry costs CHF 12 for adults, CHF 8 for For ticket information visit: www.sharks.ch and events, see the official flyer at kids, or CHF 25 for families. Discounts with Familienpass. http://www.ed-bs.ch/jfs/sport/ sportangebote/fuer-alle/gratis- Family Play-Sunday: They are open from 13:30-17:00 on December 15 and Janu- uffs-glattyys/flyer_gratisglat- FC Basel 1893 (Fussball / Soccer) tyys_2013_a5_print.pdf ary 19 for an afternoon of fun and games. on sihlsee © natureisfeld Entry costs CHF 15 for adults, CHF 10 Skating on a frozen lake Red: Home Game @ St. Jakob Arena for kids, or CHF 30 per family. Discounts Date Time Home team Guests Boxing Classes with Familienpass. If you would like to try the unforget- table experience of skating outdoors January 7, 14, and 21 www.play4you.ch/agenda Sun., Dec. 1 16:00 BSC Young Boys FC Basel 1893 on a beautiful frozen lake, consider the Wed., Dec. 4 19:30 FC Le Mont LS FC Basel 1893 If your child would like to try their hand Natur-Eisfeld on Sihlsee, about 1.5 hours at boxing, the Boxclub Basel is offering Sports Classes for everyone! from Basel. Cost for skating on the lake Sat., Dec. 7 19:45 FC Basel 1893 Grasshoppers Club a 3-week trial class for kids ages 8-16 on As a part of Basels initiative to keep Basler’s is CHF 5 for adults and CHF 3 for kids; Wed., Dec. 11 20:45 FC Schalke 04 FC Basel 1893 Tuesdays in January; contact Stefan Käser healthy, they have compiled a huge list cost for skate rental is CHF 10 for adults at 079-401-9106 or [email protected]. Sat., Dec. 14 19:45 FC Basel 1893 FC Luzern of classes available for adults in the Basel and CHF 5 for kids. If you go there by www.boxclub-basel.ch area. They offer classes in the daytime, car, you can park in front of the Schul- Note that additional games may be added depending on Basel’s results in the evenings, and even on weekends in the haus Euthal for CHF 5. Sihlsee is also Swiss Cup and Champions’ League qualification. areas of gymnastics, Kraft Fit, Pilates, reachable by public transport; take the For an updated game plan, check out: http://www.fcb.ch/season Aikido Nordic walking, Step & Tone, Tanz Work- train to Einsiedeln and then the Postauto January 18 (bus), direction Euthal, to the stop called FC Basel Tickets: Prices range from CHF 25 to CHF 75 for adults in regular out, table tennis, Zumba, Zumba Shape, seating. Children ages 6-16 receive a discount of 25% in the regular seating “Post.” Check their website for ice condi- Aikidoschule SanShinKai is inviting kids water gymnastics, water jogging, Aqua- areas. There is a special area for families and young adults (up to age 22) with ages 6 and up to an Aikido trial class on Power Gym, and Aqua-Zumba. Other tions before heading out! slightly lower prices. January 18. For times and additional classes focus on relaxation, including www.natureisfeld-sihlsee.ch For ticket information visit: http://fcb.ch/stadiumplanprices 26 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 27 Entertainment: Parents’ Night Out

Katie Melua its best, and the light show complements Grand Giuseppe Verdi Gala December 14 the performance. Concert will be at the December 27 Cirque du Soleil—Dralion Konzertfabrik in Pratteln; tickets cost Katie Melua, one of the most successful The Grand Giuseppe Verdi Gala will be December 11-15 CHF 65. British female singers of the new millen- presented by Opera Polska, performing Dralion is the fusion of 3,000 years of nium, has released four studio albums, www.z-7.ch the most popular passages from “Nab- Chinese circus tradition and the avant- with worldwide hits such as “Closest ucco,” “Aida,” “Rigoletto,” “The Trou- garde approach of Cirque du Soleil. The thing to crazy” or “Nine million bicy- Christmas Tattoo 2013 badour,” and “La Traviata.” Concert will show draws its inspiration from Eastern cles.” She has had several memorable ap- December 17-19 start at 20:00 at the Musiksaal of the philosophy with its perpetual quest for pearances, including a show for Nelson Stadt-Casino Basel; tickets range from harmony between humans and nature. Mandela with the band Queen, a dinner This one-of-a-kind drum corps Christ- CHF 45-90. The show’s name is derived from its mas special combines the musical, artis- with the Queen of England, and a unique www.actnews.ch two main symbols: the dragon, which concert on the seabed of the North Sea. tic, and acrobatic feat of drumming at its represents the East, and the lion, which She will perform her beloved songs, as best with the magic and music of Christ- represents the West. In the world of mas. The three shows will be at the St. well as songs from her new album “Kete- Monty Python’s Spamalot—Musical Dralion culture, people and nature Jakobshalle in Basel; tickets start at CHF van”, at the new exhibition and event January 8-19 merge to become one, and there is hall in Luzern. 77 and there are family specials if you balance. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind purchase your tickets directly through The Häbse-Theater is presenting this Ger- show sure to thrill, mesmerize, and www.ticketcorner.ch the Basel Tattoo Shop near Marktplatz man version of the Monty Python Spa- captivate you. The seven shows take (Schneidergasse 27). malot Musical “Der Ritter der Kokosnuss” place at St. Jakobshalle in Basel; tickets Dance Night www.christmas-tattoo.ch (The knight of the coconut). The British start at CHF 60. December 14 and 31, January 11 and 24 cult formation sends their audience with English Comedy the legendary King Arthur deep into the www.ticketcorner.ch “Tanznacht40” is a dance party for those Middle Ages to search for the Holy Grail. who have at least 40 years under their December 19 Wild, weird, and black, they go forth to photo credit: © cirque du soleil © cirque credit: photo belts. On December 14 and 31 as well as “The Greatest Show on Legs” comes Camelot in the endless forests, where it January 11, it will feature old and new Palazzo Colombino shown at each event. You can go to their Voices of Gospel directly from the United Kingdom to the all ends happily ever after. Tickets start music, and on January 24 it will feature website to view a trailer of the 2013/2014 Kuppel in Basel at 20:00. This surreal sketch at CHF 69. November 22 – January 12 December 5, 6, and 7 House & Electro. Dance parties run from presentation entitled “The Fine Line group played a hugely important role in Experience this high-class variety show The 28th edition of the “Voices of Gospel” 21:00-03:00 at the Querfeld-Halle, Dor- www.haebse-theater.ch Between Athletes and Artists.” the development of Alternative Comedy. with a mixture of fascinating artistry tour brings you two choirs from Kentucky nacherstrasse 192, Basel. Admission is Tickets are CHF 35 and can be purchased www.eoft.eu/programme/ while spoiling yourself with a 4-course and Alabama. Don’t miss the powerful CHF 15. at Ticket Corner in person or online. Chinesischer Nationalcircus candle-light dinner in a tent with a spe- www.stadtcasino.ch/ rhythms, the clear voices, and the moving www.tanznacht40.ch/daten_basel. www.internationalcomedyclub.ch (Chinese National Circus) cial atmosphere. Tickets can be purchased spirit of this one-of-a-kind music style. html www.ticketcorner.ch online. English Comedy Concerts take place at the Pauluskirche in January 10, 2014 Basel; tickets are CHF 45 and CHF 49. www.palazzocolombino.ch December 5 The Chinese National Circus presents its www.voicesofgospel.ch The Book of Disquiet The Harlem Gospel Singers Show new program that focuses on the city of U.K. comedians Dan Antopolski (Triple December 15 December 20 Shanghai as a symbol of China’s transi- Fame Perrier Award Nominee), Tom Craine This installment of the Black on White For over 20 years, the incomparable Har- tion into the modern age. In the 1930s (Times Top 5) and Nat Luurtsema (Chor- Christmas Ball November 22, 2013 – April 16, 2014 concert series, which sets literary texts lem Gospel Singers with Queen Esther at and 40s, Shanghai was deeply rooted in tle Nominee) have combined their December 7 Theater Basel will be presenting the mu- to chamber music, will feature Domen- the top have been the most successful for- tradition and convention, but also adapt- unique styles of comedy to form the sical Fame, in German and English. This Tanzschule Basel (Dance School Basel) ico Melchiorre, solo timpanist of the mation of their kind. Their unique sound ed to the new philosophy of “East meets sketch group Jigsaw. They will be bring- is the well-known story of the students is organizing this Christmas ball at the Sinfonieorchester Basel. Melchiorre will is spiritual, explosive, and uplifting by West” and “old meets new.” This aspect ing Anglo-Saxon laughter to the Kuppel in the School of Performing Arts in New Grosser Festsaal of the Stadt-Casino Ba- perform works by Giorgio Battistelli, awakening hope and joy of life. Come of Chinese culture and history is inter- in Basel at 20:00. Tickets are CHF 35 and York, their ambition, friendships, strug- sel from 19:30-24:00. Cost is CHF 180 per Rocc de Cia, Yair Klartag, and Emanuele and experience this elaborately staged preted through stunning acrobatics, as can be purchased at Ticket Corner in per- gles, romances, and their quest to become couple. Palumbo with excerpts from The Book of production of “The Power of Love” at well as poetic and gravity-defying artistic son or online. famous. Does love stand a chance when www.tanzschule-basel.ch Disquiet by Fernando Pessoa. The concert the Stadt-Casino, starting at 19:30. Tick- acts. Show will be at the Musical Theater egos, artistic vocation, and the desire for www.internationalcomedyclub.ch will be held at the Basler Papiermühle at ets range from CHF 38-88. in Basel; tickets range from CHF 58-88 fame collide? Whom will “Fame” make www.ticketcorner.ch 17:00. Tickets are CHF 35 and can be pur- for adults and CHF 29-44 for kids 6-16. Lord of the Dance www.musical.ch immortal in the end? chased in advance at Bider & Tanner. Children under 6 will not be admitted. December 13 www.theater-basel.ch AFTER HOURS—Chillen im Museum www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch www.ticketcorner.ch This internationally acclaimed show will December 5 and January 2 be visiting Switzerland as part of their European Outdoor Film Tour From 18:00-23:00, the Naturhistorisches 15th anniversary tour. It combines folk, Alan Parsons Live Project Perpetuum Jazzile 2013/2014 Museums Basel is inviting you to “AFTER pop art, hi-tech, and Irish-American tap December 17 January 11 December 2 HOURS—Chillen im Museum.” Enjoy a dance with flamenco, to create a rhyth- Alan Parson wrote music history, as Perpetuum Jazzile is an orchestra of drink at the bar, visit the impressive col- The European Outdoor Film Tour mic, melodic, and optical revue that is a sound engineer for several Beatles’ about 50 musicians from Slowenia that lections in the basement of the museum, presents a selection of the best and most sure to catapult audiences into a euphor- albums and producer of Pink Floyd’s create their music not with instruments, or go on short tours behind the scenes extraordinary outdoor and adventure ic mood. They will perform in the Event- “Dark Side of the Moon.” With the Alan but only with their voices. They interpret to see the museum’s treasures up close. films at the Stadt-Casino on Barfüsser- halle at the Messe Basel on December 13, Parsons Project, he had countless hits, songs from various genres, including jazz, Entrance is free; spaces for tours are lim- platz. This year’s program currently and at the Kongresshaus in Zürich on such as “Eye in the sky,” “Sirius,” “Don’t pop, swing, rock, bossa nova, samba, and ited! consists of nine different short films and December 14; tickets start at CHF 64. answer me,” “Prime Time,” and “Luci- gospel. The Perpetuum Jazzile Vocal Or-

documentaries (in English) that will be www.nmb.bs.ch www.ticketcorner.ch fer.” The sound is excellent, the music at singers © harlem gospel credit photo chestra offers you a 2-hour feast of great 28 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 29 Entertainment: Parents’ Night Out (continued)

emotions and great musical art. Tickets Fromm Ball 2013 Mahler’s Fifth Symphony. A magnificent can be purchased at the ticket office of January 18 20th-century masterpiece, Dmitri Shos- Mother Africa, 2014 the Stadt-Casino, at Bider & Tanner, or takovitch’s Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, The Tanzschule Fromm (dance school January 18 online. Op. 47, will end the evening. The con- Fromm) hosts the ball event of the win- cert will be held at Stadt-Casino Basel “UMLINGO” is the name of the new Mother Africa 2014 show. www.1a-unternehmung.ch ter. This ball has been popular among at 19:30 with a pre-concert talk (in Ger- Picking up the spiritual energy of Africa, this completely new www.ticketino.com dance fans of all ages for decades, even man) at 18:30. Tickets range from CHF program is about the positive power of music, the magic of the younger generation is now finding it 30-90 and can be purchased in advance beauty, and the wonderful power of laughter. UMLINGO is a “in” to go out and enjoy the live music, Michael Bublé at Bider & Tanner. fast-paced, colorful, and imaginative show full of feeling and festive atmosphere, and alternative to magical moments that will enchant the audience with magnifi- www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch January 15 the nightclub-style dance venues. Book cent artistry, rousing music, and traditional African and modern Canadian-born Michael Bublé will be early as tickets go fast. Ball will take place circus and show elements. ABBA Gold presenting his new album “To Be Loved” at the Stadt-Casino Basel at 19:30; tickets www.ticketcorner.ch in Zürich’s Hallenstadion for one night are CHF 120 per person. January 25 only. Michael Bublé masters the balanc- africa © mother credit photo www.fromm.ch/FrommballDetails Back again for one night only, “ABBA ing act between nostalgia and modernity finale. Magic of the Dance is coming movie format—including pyro effects, yourself at the Musical Theater in Basel. www.ticketcorner.ch Gold” stages the music of ABBA as vivid with ease. In his love songs for fresh or to the Musical Theater in Basel with its projections, laser show, choreography, Tickets range from CHF 45-100. and original as possible at the Musical freshly separated pairs he can convey, newly crowned champion of the Irish and sometimes British humor—makes www.ticketcorner.ch Theater Basel. The high quality and at- with his incomparable voice, all facets of Dance World. this the largest and most elaborate stage tention to detail, from the original cos- the ups and downs of relationships. Tick- www.actnews.ch show in the band’s history. Tickets cost The Phantom of the Opera tumes to the Swedish accent of the band ets range from CHF 88-160 and can be CHF 58-88. Best Piano Trios in Jazz January 20 and 21 members, means that the audience does purchased through Ticket Corner. Gregorian Epic Chants www.ticketcorner.ch January 30 “The Phantom of the Opera” is one of not have to close their eyes to believe that www.ticketcorner.ch the most successful touring musicals in they are attending a “real” ABBA concert. January 27 The natural piano sensation Iiro Rantala Europe. The Musical Theater in Basel Tickets range from CHF 40-80. The hit show “Epic Chants,” which mix- is teaming up with bassist Lars Daniels- Shadowland will be presenting this German-language son and drummer Wolfgang Haffner. The Rhythm of the Dance www.ticketcorner.ch es Gregorian chant and modern rock and musical revival of the 1910 novel “Le pop music, is peppered with new songs January 29 – February 2 “power trio” comes to Switzerland to January 17 Fantome de l’Opéra” for two nights only. from the album “Masters of Chant 9.” In 2007, this American dance company present their new funk-oriented jazz mu- The National Dance Company of Ireland Tickets are CHF 48-128. Magic of the Dance The twelve classically trained English fascinated the world with their spectac- sic that is rhythmic; dynamic; and full of will be in Basel for one night on their January 26 singers will present theme songs from ular performance art that had never be- magic at the keyboard, wit, surprise, and www.ticketcorner.ch even melancholic beauty. They will be 15th Anniversary Tour. They have been Magic of the Dance is the most high- blockbusters such as “Batman Forever,” fore been seen—behind a lighted screen, performing at the Festsaal of the Stadt- heralded as a new era in Irish entertain- energy tap dance show that Ireland has “Against All Odds,” “Titanic,” “Down elegantly fused knots of people trans- You Must Rejoice! Casino in Barfüsserplatz. Tickets range ment and one of the most popular and to offer. The best tap dancers of the world by the River,” and “James Bond” at the form into figures such as moving cars, from CHF 26-58. successful Irish dance and tap dance January 22 and 23 come together with an innovative choreo- Musical Theater in Basel. The focus of elephants, rising flowers, castles, or cen- shows in the world. The show, which in- The Sinfonieorchester Basel starts the graphy by eight-time world champion “Epic Chants” on entertainment in the taurs. Is it shadow theater? Dance? See for www.offbeat-concert.ch cludes a live band, three tenors, and 22 New Year boldly with their January John Carey. It is a thrilling love story told dancers, will take place at the Stadt-Ca- symphony concert featuring guest solo- by Hollywood star Sir Christopher Lee sino in Basel; tickets are CHF 70-95 for ist Fabio Bidini with Aram Khachaturi- with enchanting music, spectacular fire- Ticket Office: Get your tickets now! adults and CHF 55-80 for kids. an’s Concerto for Piano in D-flat major, works, and an excellent light show with These are some of the great concerts and shows that will be happening around Switzerland in the upcoming months. www.ticketcorner.ch Op. 38 and the Adagietto from Gustav film clips, that culminates in a grand Who: Where: When: Tickets: Die Nacht der Musicals Stadt-Casino, Basel February 9, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch Power! Percussion James Arthur Kaufleuten, Zürich February 11, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch January 17 Depeche Mode Hallenstadion, Zürich February 14 & 15, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch Rhythm is fascinating, especially when drum- ming goes far beyond drums. These five musi- Birdy X-TRA, Zürich February 19, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch cians from Munich will amaze you with their Nana Mouskouri Metro Grand Casino, Basel February 23, 2014 www.grandcasinobasel.com elaborate show of sound, light, and concentrated power, using boom whackers, light drums, huge The Wanted Komplex 457, Zürich February 25, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch oil drums, aluminum ladders, and their own Simple Minds BernExpo, Bern February 26, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch bodies as drums. Show will be held at the Burghof Jason Derulo X-TRA, Zürich March 9, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch in Lörrach at 20:00; tickets range from €25-35. In addition to the show, they will be holding a James Blunt Hallenstadion, Zürich March 17, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch workshop for kids and teens ages 8 and up at 14:00 Harlem Globetrotters Hallenstadion, Zürich March 28, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch the same day. Participants will make music to- gether using djembes, drums, sound shapes, and Justin Timberlake Hallenstadion, Zürich April 14, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch maracas. Kids will find out if they have talent The Australian Pink Floyd Show St. Jakobshalle, Basel May 15, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch and rhythm in their blood. Participation is free Chick Corea Piano Solo Stadt-Casino, Basel May 16, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch of charge but spaces are limited. Register online by December 11. Robbie Williams Hallenstadion, Zürich June 2, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch www.burghof.com One Direction Stade de Suisse, Bern July 4, 2014 www.ticketcorner.ch photo credit: © power! percussion/burghof © power! credit: photo

30 www.baselfamilymagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 31 For more information about subscribing or advertising – please contact us: MAGAZINE [email protected] A Family Guide to Discovering Basel for the Expat Community www.baselfamilymagazine.com

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