Contrary to the other countries, most Swiss carnivals are held after Lent begins, probably as a Protestant reaction to Catholicism. Basel's carnival is the country's biggest, involving about 20,000 masked participants who march through the streets in three huge processions, beginning at 4:00am on the Monday morning following Ash Wednesday. As the clock strikes 4 a.m., street lights are switched off and costumed fife-and-drum bands begin playing, beginning 3 days of carnival activity, which climaxes on Wednesday night with the Gässle. During the Gassle, masked groups wander through the city center in a wild free-form romp, following the pipers and drummers until 4 a.m. Thursday morning.
Austria
If elegance and beautiful music is your preference for bringing in the Lent, then come to Vienna. Known for its balls which take place in Feb/March, its quite a different experience from the wild carnival celebrations. One unusual and rather intriguing ball is the "Rudolfina Redoute or the Ladies' Choice Ball. Here the women choose their partners and remain anonymous throughout the evening, hidden behind a mask. At midnight, the masks are removed and identities are revealed. The Opera Ball is another famous event, where you can mingle with international celebrities--everyone from movie stars to politicians. At the Vienna State Opera, the stage, foyers and chambers are transformed into a dance floor, where you can waltz away the night, surrounded by 20,000 carnations.
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