Basel Tattoo

Basel Tattoo is a special show that happens every year in Basel, Switzerland. It is called a military tattoo, which means it features performances by bands from many countries, exciting display teams, popular musicians, and special formations of soldiers. People come from all over to watch these shows.

The performances take place in an old building called the Basel Kaserne, which is now known as the Basel Tattoo Arena. Every July, there are also big parades that many people enjoy. One of these parades is thought to be the largest event in the area, with around 125,000 visitors coming to see it.

History

The Basel Tattoo started in 2006 by the local Top Secret Drum Corps. It has become one of the biggest shows of its kind, with many performers and a large budget, second only to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The event is now supported by the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), making it Switzerland’s official military tattoo.

In 2008, the Basel Tattoo began holding a parade in Basel to show more people the performers. The next year, a second parade was added in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Over the years, thousands of people have watched the shows and parades. In 2014, many people attended the performances and parades, and even more watched on television on SRF 1. The shows feature performers from many countries, including groups like the Blue Devils International Corps.