Basel Tattoo 2026
Against the historical backdrop of Kaserne Basel, the Basel Tattoo – the world’s second-largest tattoo – is held each summer. Look forward to a sensational show with the sounds of bagpipes, wind-instrument music and folk dances.
A special kind of musical spectacle
At the Basel Tattoo, elite military bands from around the world impress audiences with a top-class musical programme. Inspired by the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the sounds of bagpipes, impressive dance choreographies, wind-instrument music and drumming all come together to create spine-tingling moments.
In summer 2026, the Basel Tattoo celebrates its 20th anniversary. From 17 to 25 July, a newly redesigned arena on the Kasernenareal will host international world-class acts, royal formations and legendary bagpipe sounds. The Band of His Majesty’s Irish Guards and The Band of His Majesty’s Scots Guards, two traditional British Guards regiments, will perform in Basel. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, the Massed Pipes and Drums and international dance ensembles will also bring Scottish sounds, precise choreography and spectacular show moments to the arena.
The Top Secret Drum Corps will also return for the anniversary edition. In 2026, Basel’s drumming stars will meet the Blue Devils from the USA, multiple world champions of the international show drumming scene. Together, they will present an exclusive short act that can only be seen at the Basel Tattoo 2026. The programme is completed by Scottish singer-songwriter Cammy Barnes as well as further formations from Switzerland and other countries.
Basel Tattoo tips
Tattoo Street (17 to 25 July 2026)
Tattoo Street is home to row upon row of food stalls just outside the arena and also a meeting point for Tattoo fans and participants. You can soak up the Tattoo atmosphere here – even if you don’t have a ticket.
Basel Tattoo Parade (18 July 2026)
The Basel Tattoo bands and numerous guest formations march at this big parade through Basel city centre – to the delight of the roadside onlookers. The procession starts at 2.00 pm and goes from Bäumleingasse via Freie Strasse, Marktplatz, and Mittlere Brücke to Claraplatz and Messeplatz.
Basel Tattoo Children’s Day (25 July 2026)
On Basel Tattoo Children’s Day, the Tattoo Arena at Kaserne Basel becomes a large playground for an afternoon. On Saturday, 25 July 2026, children can meet the performers from 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm, try out instruments, ask questions and experience the Basel Tattoo up close. Admission is free.
Good to know.
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The Basel Tattoo takes place in late summer each year.
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Kaserne Basel is located on the Rhine directly in the city centre. It is easy to get to via public transport thanks to the “Kaserne” tram stop, and travelling by car is also very convenient as there are plenty of car parks to choose from in Kleinbasel.
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Free wheelchair spaces can be booked via the Basel Tattoo Shop.
This is where people with disabilities can find information on the accessibility of hotels, museums and events, so that they can plan their visit to Basel in advance.