Bachfischet in Aarau: experience tradition
Overview
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Intro
Once a year, Aarau’s old town is transformed into an atmospheric backdrop for the Bachfischet, one of the oldest living customs in Switzerland. With a festive lantern procession through the darkened alleyways of the old town, the end of the annual cleaning of the city’s stream has been celebrated for centuries. At the same time, the city offers numerous unique highlights that make Aarau an unforgettable travel destination.
A festival linking history and community
One of the oldest customs in Switzerland is celebrated in Aarau every autumn: the Bachfischet – or “stream fishing”. Since the Middle Ages, children and young people have looked forward to “clearing the stream”, while holding aloft their artistically designed lanterns. The festival showcases the city’s close connection to its water course, a man-made canal that supplied the city with water for centuries.
After dark, family members, neighbours, friends and numerous visitors form a dense guard of honour for the parade and to experience Aarau in this unique atmosphere. During this time, the darkened alleyways of the old town are illuminated only by the parade’s 2,200 or so lanterns. These are accompanied by children’s singing of the traditional Bachfischet song. The crowning glory of this atmospheric parade is the firework display, ending with a traditional “Mordschlapf” – a final bang that officially brings the event to a close.
More about Bachfischet
Discover urban Aarau: a city that surprises
Picturesque alleyways, unique owner-managed shops, innovative innkeepers and the diverse cultural attractions on offer all make a stay in Aarau an experience to remember. The city is the perfect place to experience history and hospitality in a variety of ways.
City tours: Experience history from up close
Take a guided tour and journey back in time through Aarau’s eventful history. Trained guides will lead you to the most important sights and share history, stories and anecdotes with you. Public tours provide you with an uncomplicated way to get involved, while group tours can be planned individually – and are ideal for club outings, family celebrations or class reunions.
Cuisine at the Restaurant Speck
The Restaurant Speck in Aarau’s old town brings together some interesting contrasts: Good, but not gentrified. Traditional, but not conservative. Swiss, but also European. Authentic, carefully prepared dishes awaken memories, while also making room for something new. The cuisine is characterised by respect and care, as is the atmosphere – for a space where indulgence and good company are at the focus of things.
Spend a night in the charming “zum graf” bed & breakfast
Experience a stay in a picturesque old town house: the “zum graf” bed & breakfast is an ideal place to retreat to in the heart of Aarau’s old town. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail make every stay something special. This is a place where historical flair and modern comforts come together, ensuring unforgettable experiences.
Contact
Aarau Info
Metzgergasse 2
5000
Aarau
Switzerland
Phone
+41 (0)62 834 10 34
Fax +41 (0)62 834 10 35
mail@aarauinfo.ch
aarauinfo.ch
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