Chienbäse

The Chienbäse is by far the most popular tradition in Baselland. It takes place in Liestal on the Sunday after Ash Wednesday, in the evening before the Morgenstraich. Several hundred Chienbäse carriers parade through the "Stedtli" (old town), carrying their homemade pinewood brooms ablaze.

Numerous fire carts are also pulled along in the procession. Tens of thousands of spectators attend this fiery spectacle of ancient fire burning. The flames and the shower of sparks in the darkened Old Town make for a truly unique experience.

Procession Route
The procession begins at 7:15 pm. The route starts on Burgstrasse, continues through Rathausstrasse, Rebgasse, and Gerbergasse, and ends at the lower Gestadeckplatz (Rosenmund junction). Click here for the route plan.

Getting There
Travelling by public transport is recommended. Guests staying in the canton of Baselland can travel free of charge on public transport with the Guest Pass+.

Key Information About the Chienbäse

What is the Chienbäse procession?

The Chienbäse procession, held on the evening of Carnival Sunday, is a truly unique and undisputed highlight of the region. Piccolo players and drummers lead the long procession through Liestal’s town centre with their distinctive marches. They are followed by Chienbäse carriers and the "Füürwäägeler". The flames of the fire carts flicker up to the gables of the closely built old town houses. Around 300 Chienbäse brooms and nearly 20 fire carts radiate an incredible heat that warms the thousands of local and visiting spectators alike.

When does the Chienbäse procession take place?

It takes place in Liestal on the Sunday after Ash Wednesday, in the evening before the Morgenstraich.

2026: Sunday, 22 February
2027: Sunday, 14 February
2028: Sunday, 5 March
2029: Sunday, 18 February
2030: Sunday, 10 March

What time does the Chienbäse procession start?

The procession begins at 7:15 pm.

Do I need a ticket for the Chienbäse procession?

No, the procession is free to attend and does not require a ticket.

Where does the Chienbäse procession take place?

The route starts at Burgstrasse, continues through Rathausstrasse, Rebgasse, and Gerbergasse, and ends at the lower Gestadeckplatz (Rosenmund junction). See the route map.

Where can I park my car?

We strongly recommend travelling to Liestal by public transport. Guests staying overnight in the canton of Basel-Landschaft travel free of charge on public transport with the Guest Pass+.

If you need to drive, consider parking your car in one of the local car parks or in the surrounding area. Please be sure to follow the instructions of the traffic management team.

What should I wear to the Chienbäse procession?

We recommend wearing old, appropriate clothing, avoiding flammable materials (to prevent burn holes), and sturdy footwear.

What safety precautions should I take?

The Chienbäse and fire carts are stunning to watch but can also pose risks. Please note that attending the event is at your own risk. For your safety, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Maintain a safe distance from the fire carts and Chienbäse carriers.
• Keep children back from the procession route. If you are attending with children, it is advisable to watch the procession in the lower section near the "Ausbrennplatz," where the crowds are less dense.
• Pushchairs and buggies are not permitted during the procession.
• Children under 6 years old should observe the fire from a safe distance outside the procession route.
• Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by a parent.
• Do not carry children on your shoulders during the procession. The heat is much more intense at that height.
• Fireworks are strictly prohibited!
• People with health issues or mobility impairments are strongly advised not to stay along the procession route.
• Stay on the pavement before and during the procession.
• Never cross the road during the event.
• Do not attempt to take photographs from the road along the procession route, as judging distances through a camera lens can be hazardous.
• Always ensure you have an escape route available.
• Be cautious of flying sparks; no liability is assumed for fire damage.

The safety team is authorised to remove individuals who do not comply with these rules.

The organisers thank you for your understanding.

Where does the Chienbäse procession get its name?

The modern form of the Chienbäse procession is credited to Eugen Stutz, a master confectioner born in 1904, who lived in Kanonengasse. He was popularly known as "Stutze-Geni." It is believed that bakers, who mainly used pinewood to heat their ovens—especially the resin-rich wood known as "Chien"—may have inspired the idea of creating a Chienbäse (a burning broom).

You can read more about the history of the Chienbäse HERE.

Which hotels are recommended for an overnight stay?

You can find all hotel options in Liestal HERE.