It's the beginning of the year and carnival is being celebrated all over Switzerland - including in Thun. Thomas Burkhart, Obergring of the Thun Fasnacht Friends, explains what lies behind the tradition.

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Mr. Burkhart, where does the carnival tradition come from? Where and when did it originate?

The tradition of Fasnacht (also known as Fastnacht, Karneval or Fasching) has its origins in a mixture of pagan customs and Christian rituals. The roots go back to pre-Christian times and the current form has developed over centuries.

Even in ancient times, people in Europe celebrated frenzied festivals to drive away winter and welcome spring.

The Roman Saturnalia and Germanic winter exorcism rituals in particular served as precursors to today's carnival. Masks and disguises were intended to scare off evil spirits and symbolize the chaos before the order of the new year.

With the Christianization of Europe, carnival became part of the church's liturgical calendar. It became a time of preparation for Lent before Easter.

The word "Fasnacht" comes from "Fastnacht", the night before the beginning of Lent. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the 40-day fasting period, and the days leading up to it were used to celebrate and use up supplies of meat, fat and sweets.

The carnival is mentioned as early as the 12th century, for example in reports about carnival games or carnival parades in German cities.

Cities such as Basel, Cologne and Mainz in particular are regarded as early centers of the carnival tradition.

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Conclusion: Fasnacht is a multifaceted tradition with roots in ancient fertility rites, winter exorcisms and religious festivals. It has adapted and evolved over the centuries and is now celebrated as a cultural event with regional characteristics.

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Fasnacht can be found all over Switzerland. What makes the carnival in Thun so special?

The Thun Carnival is a special event in the Swiss carnival calendar and stands out due to its early date and special atmosphere. The picturesque town of Thun, with its impressive castle, charming alleyways and panoramic views of the Alps, attracts Guggenmusik bands and carnival enthusiasts from all over Switzerland.

Highlights of the Thun Carnival:

Four days full of carnival fun

Thanks to the excellent organization of the GRINGERAT, the programme offers variety and entertainment for every age group. From lots of Guggenmusik to the children's carnival, everything is included.

Schnitzelbank evening on Friday

The humorous Schnitzelbänke, which take place in six different restaurants, are a special treat. With their satirical texts and melodies, they delight anew every year.

Children's carnival on Saturday

In the Mühleplatz tent, the Schwiizergoofe make children's eyes sparkle with their new program at the children's carnival. Face painting, balloons, extra children's buttons - everything is available. The subsequent children's parade with ten bands offers young guests the opportunity to experience the carnival up close.

Guggenmusiken until late into the night

On Saturday evening and into the early hours of Sunday morning (03:00), the Guggenmusik bands provide an exuberant atmosphere in various squares and tents.

The big parade on Sunday

The highlight of the Thun Carnival is the parade through Bälliz and the upper Hauptgasse. The unique backdrop of the Hochtrottoirs and the enthusiastic participation of the Guggen create an atmosphere that is unforgettable for both spectators and participants.

Thun Fasnacht is more than just a local festival - it is an experience that perfectly combines tradition, entertainment and the beauty of the city.

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What does a typical carnival in Thun look like?

Our program begins on Thursday evening with the handover of the sceptre from the Mayor to the Obergring.

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Thursday

19:10: Procession from Manorplatz via Hauptgasse to Rathausplatz

19:30: Ichüble on the town hall square followed by Gässle

Friday

Performances by the Schnitzelbank groups, Guggefescht in the tents

Saturday

1:31 pm: Children's carnival in the Mühleplatz tent

16:01: Start of children's parade in Bälliz, followed by Guggen concerts and Beizenfasnacht

Sunday

13:59: Start of the parade, followed by Concerto Gigante on the Rathausplatz.

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How many visitors does the carnival attract to Thun?

20,000 - 30,000 visitors. It always depends on the weather.

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‍Whatis the significance of Fasnacht for Thun?

Alongside the Thunfest and Fulehung, the Thun Carnival has established itself as one of the highlights of Thun's annual calendar. It has been an integral part of cultural life for over 25 years and Thun would be unthinkable without it.

A tradition with heart and community

For the Thun carnival revellers, this festival is more than just an event - it is a joyful reunion with friends from all over Switzerland who find their way to Thun every year. The warm atmosphere and close interaction between the Guggen and guests make the Thun Fasnacht a highlight for everyone involved.

‍Thuncarnival revellers: ambassadors for the town

The Guggen and carnival revellers from Thun are not only active at home, but are also represented at numerous carnival events throughout Switzerland. Thanks to their cheerful nature and commitment, they are welcome guests everywhere and spread the spirit of the Thun carnival to every corner of the country.

This connection with other towns and carnival cultures underlines the importance of the Thun carnival as a bridge between tradition and community. It is a festival that not only unites the people of Thun, but also people from all over Switzerland and inspires them anew every year.

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Now they've got us hooked. When will the next Thun Carnival take place?

January 30 to February 2, 2025

Further information: thuner-fasnacht.ch

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