Once again, strange happenings outside my living room window. By now I have learned that when I hear prolonged piping of fife and drum, I really outta check out the commotion. Today was no exception. There was a big spectacle. Since I didn’t know that anything was planned for today, I was basically clueless as I observed the festivities. So, let’s see if I can piece this together now.
Today was the “Die Drei Ehrengesellschaften Kleinbasels” Basically speaking each house of Klein Basel has a mascot and together they all march through Klein Basel. While marching through the streets they stop to pause and engage in dances. There are also four Ueli (jesters) that jump about shaking beer mugs to entice the onlookers to give them change. In turn, the money is given to charities in Klein Basel. There are lots of other details that you can find here: Vogel Gryff
Overall a very cool and jovial experience... just ask this guy!
The procession begins with children carrying colorful lanterns
then, flag bearers from the three houses of Klein Basel
The mascots are close behind. Here you can just see "Greifen" and Rebhaus is in the foreground.
followed by the music: first Fife players, then the drums.
Lastly, for everyone who made it this far.... a video of the action! (BTW: The video is more for the music ...since lighting was pretty poor)
