Attention! Annual Testing of Emergency Alert Alarms Across Switzerland
Audio Story With Ajita
The Annual Siren Test in Switzerland: Ensuring Preparedness and Safety This is probably one of the most importants stories you should listen to, if you live in Switzerland. Join us as we discuss the crucial annual siren test in Switzerland with Mr. Christian Fuchs, co-head of Public Information and Emergencies at the Federal Office for Civil Protection. Learn about the history and purpose of testing the sirens across the country every February, the types of alarms used, and the importance of personal emergency preparedness. Gain insights on the Alert Swiss app and practical tips for...
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Drummeli - The Pre Carnival Event In Basel Fasnacht
Audio Story With Ajita
Exploring Basel's Pre-Carnival Traditions and Performances with Drummeli This episode dives into the pre-carnival events in Basel, known as 'Vorfasnachtsveranstaltungen' which feature satirical and musical performances leading up to the main carnival. The show covers various aspects, including many popular pre-carnival events. We speak with Matthieu Meyer Producer of Drummeli and Michael Luisier the Director of Drummeli about the significance and the traditions behind these events. Additionally, Sangita Sing Gangar, a young theater actress, shares her debut experience with the group. The...
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Construction Projects in Basel in 2026 with Roger Reinauer
Audio Story With Ajita
Modernizing Basel: 2026 Infrastructure Projects and Updates Join us as we discuss the major infrastructure projects in Basel set for 2026 with Roger Reinauer, the head of Roads and Rivers and Cantonal Engineer. This episode delves into the collaboration between various departments, including the Tiefbauamt, IWB, and BVB, as they work on renewing roads, utilities, and tram stops. We also cover ongoing delays, disruptions, and the broader implications of these projects. Learn about the Basel District Heating Network and its progress towards the 2037 decarbonization target, with 3.8 kilometers of...
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Youth Book Ship 2026 with Viviane Pescatore Naef
Audio Story With Ajita
Ship Ahoy! Interview with Head of Library, Pedagogy Centre Basel, Department of Education Exploring Basel's Youth Book Ship: A Floating Library Experience Join Neighborhood News as we speak with Ms. Vivian Pescatore, the head librarian of the Pedagogy Centre, about the Youth Book Ship 2026. This unique floating library, docked on the Rhine near Basel's historic Middle Bridge, has been captivating young readers for over 44 years. Discover how this ship, filled with new books from 2025, offers a welcoming, fun environment for children to explore literature. Learn about exciting events such as a...
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International Poetry Festival Basel 2026 with Simone Lappert
Audio Story With Ajita
Exploring Poetry: A Conversation with Simone Lappert, President, Lyrikfestival Basel (International Basel Poetry Festival) In this episode of Neighborhood News speaks with Simone Lappert, the president of the Lyrikestival Basel, about her role in the festival, her off-grid lifestyle, and the impact it has on her creative process. They discuss the fear of poetry among adults, the festival's roots and its efforts to maintain intimacy while hosting international guests, and the importance of making poetry accessible to different age groups. Simone shares her journey into poetry, her views on...
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Museum Night Basel Celebrates Silver Jubilee in 2026
Audio Story With Ajita
Basel’s most anticipated cultural highlights Museum Night is celebrating it silver jubilee in 2026. This annual celebration transforms the city into a vibrant, after-dark playground for art lovers, curious minds, and night owls alike. With over 43 museums, galleries, and cultural institutions opening their doors late into the evening, Museum Night offers visitors an unforgettable chance to explore exhibitions, live performances, and special programs in a whole new light. Joining us today is Natalia Huser, tleading the project of Museum Night Basel, to share what’s in store for this...
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Swissbau 2026 - Building New Impulses Together with Tobias Hofmeier
Audio Story With Ajita
In this insightful episode, Tobias Hoffmeier, the Exhibition Director for Swissbau, speaks with Neighborhood News about the theme of this year's event, 'Setting New Impulses Together'. He discusses the importance of collaboration in addressing the fragmented nature of the construction industry and overcoming its challenges. Hoffmeier also provides an overview of the current state of the construction market in Switzerland, the role of Swiss Bau for different participants, and the exciting events like Swiss Bau Focus and Swiss Bau Lab. We discuss key topics such as sustainability, innovation,...
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Where is Switzerland going? Third National Railway Congress Bahn26
Audio Story With Ajita
The third National Railway Congress Bahn26 was held on 16. January in Basel with around 500 participants. After the focus areas on agglomeration traffic (2024) and freight transport (2025), the third National Railway Congress 2026 continued its series under the guiding question "Where is Switzerland going?" We spoke to Esther Keller, Governing Councilor and Head of Construction and Transport Department of Basel-Stadt on various important aspects of the resolution that was signed, Key players discussed the decisive course for a sustainable transport policy. The great response underlines the...
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Basel Carnival - UNESCO Intangible Heritage Basler Fasnacht
Audio Story With Ajita
Unveiling the Magic: Basel Fasnacht 2026 Join Neighborhood News as we delve into the vibrant world of the Basel Carnival 2026! In this episode, we discuss the theme 'stay playful' and explore the cultural, artistic, and social significance of Switzerland's largest carnival. Highlighting insights from Felix Rudolph von Rohr, a dedicated member of the Basel Carnival Committee, we uncover the event's unique traditions, from the eerie Morgestreich to the elaborate parades and satirical performances. Learn about the historical and global context of Basler Fasnacht, its artistic pillars, and the...
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Finding Community at Neighbourhood Meeting Points With Claudine Wolf
Audio Story With Ajita
Building Connections: Overcoming Loneliness in Basel Making new friends and finding a sense of belonging in a bustling city like Basel can be daunting. This challenge is at the heart of a conversation with Ms. Claudine Wolf, the dedicated Administrative Assistant at the Association of Neighborhood Meeting Points in Basel. Her insights illuminate community living through a lens of proactive engagement and support. The Neighborhood Meeting Points Basel boasts 16 independent neighborhood meeting points, each fostering inclusivity and variety. These centers are hubs of activity and connection,...
info_outlineOne Of The Most Beautiful Christmas Market In The World
One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe returns to light up the season… Welcome to the Basel Christmas Market. The Basel Christmas market, which is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, will take place this year from 27. November to 23. December 2025 daily from 11 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.
This year, the historic streets and squares of Basel transform once again into a winter wonderland. On Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, nearly 150 lovingly decorated stalls invite you to shop, enjoy, and linger in a magical atmosphere. Twelve new attractions await, from scented candles and whimsical socks to glowing food stalls serving empanadas and sweet treats.
Mr Conradin Cramer, the President of the cantonal government and the head of the Presidential Department of Basel-Stadt speaks about the warmth of how the whole city turns into a winter wonderland.
Visitors can marvel at the sparkling Christmas tree on Münsterplatz, ride the charming children’s carousel, or wander into the fairytale forest, where families can craft gifts, bake bread over open fires, and enjoy the delightful Zirkus Navidad puppet show. The Basler Christmas Market is more than just a feast for the senses—it is a vital part of the city’s economy. In 2024, according to a study by BAK Economics AG in cooperation with the Statistical Office of the Canton of Basel-Stadt, visitors to the Basel Christmas Market spent a total of 50 million francs at the Christmas market in 2024 and a further 54 million francs in retail, in the hotel industry, gastronomy and in the cultural industry. This also resulted in creation of 380 jobs. The wages and salaries in the amount of 32 million francs were genrated; creating jobs, supporting local culture, and sustaining the festive spirit of Basel.
Ms Letizia Elia, CEO of Basel Tourism, talks about the year that Basel has had with being a host city of Women’s Euro and Eurovision Song Contest.
Beyond the market, the magic continues. From light projections in the Rathaus courtyard, which is the townhall of Basel, to the enchanting Adväntsgasse or Advents Lane, in Rheingasse, from nativity paths to concerts and theater performances—Basel overflows with the joy of the season. And for those who crave a moment of peace, the city’s secret magic courtyards and new exclusive oases offer quiet enchantment and culinary delights. Gift yourself a moment of silence between Christmas hustle and gift stress. From 27. November to 23. December the magical, partly hidden, festively decorated courtyards exude an enchanting atmosphere.
Mr Manuel Staub, Head of Trade Fairs and Markets in Basel tells what is new this year.
Whether you’re sipping mulled wine under the glowing lights, discovering handmade treasures, or simply soaking in the festive cheer… there is something for everyone at the Basel Christmas Markets. Like on the 6th of December, around 50 costumed Santa Clauses ride through the city on their Harleys. For a less thrilling, and more creative festive season, The Theater Basel will bring its Advent calendar this year too. every evening free short performances are organise at Theatre Basel, in the Foyer Public. Visitors can hang Christmas wishes on the Christmas tree on the Rümelinsplatz or enter them in the wish book at the entrance of the Basel City Hall. Maybe, your Christmas wish will come true. To scratch your shopping itch, the Basel markets and shops will remain open Sundays on the 14th and 21st December.
Basel invites you to celebrate the season, to dream, and to make memories at Basel Christmas Market. If this is your annual family tradion, or you are a first time visitor, the warm embrace of fragrant streets of the city, will keep you warm in the grey, chilli winter. See you in the city.
Show Notes:
Neighbourhood News is a weekly, English-language, digital newsletter that delivers daily news from Basel, Switzerland. It covers a wide range of topics, including politics, arts, culture, mobility, health, travel, and more. The newsletter aims to provide readers with news that impacts their daily lives.
Beyond news delivery, Neighbourhood News also functions as a news network and content creation media house. It collaborates with local publications, print neighbourhood newspapers and magazines, and websites to bring its readers verified and authentic news. The newsletter is designed to be quick and easy to read, allowing readers to catch up on the week that was and plan for the week ahead. Every Thursday at 10 a.m., Neighbourhood News is delivered straight to your inbox, providing you with the news you need to stay informed and make informed decisions for the week ahead.
Neighbourhood News's mission is to eliminate language barriers and facilitate connections between readers as human beings, coexisting in the beautiful city of Basel. It aspires to be a bridge between so many beautiful islands that exist in Basel, bringing people, cultures, and stories closer than before.
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