Basel Council Boosts Culture: Hebel Sound Installation, Theater Production & Yodeling Festival
The Basel Government Council has recently approved several grants and guarantees to support cultural events and initiatives in the city. Among them, a 40,000-franc grant for a sound installation marking the 200th anniversary of Johann Peter Hebel’s death, and a 35,000-franc deficit guarantee for a theater production. Additionally, Basel will host the Swiss National Yodeling Festival for the first time since 1924.
The council has shown its commitment to arts and culture by approving a 40,000-franc grant for the Basel Hebel Foundation’s project 'Hebel Speaks!'. This sound installation, set to mark the 200th anniversary of Johann Peter Hebel’s death, will provide a unique auditory experience for visitors.
In the realm of theater, the council has provided a 35,000-franc deficit guarantee for Kulturhuus Häbse AG’s production of 'Macho Sapiens'. Written by Dani von Wattenwyl, this play will run from November 11 to December 31, 2025, offering Basel residents and visitors alike an engaging theatrical experience.
Basel is set to host the Swiss National Yodeling Festival for the first time in nearly a century. The council has approved a total funding of over 700,000 Swiss francs to support this event, which is expected to attract around 12,000 participants and over 200,000 visitors. The festival will be staged in Basel’s city center with the help of a 450,000-franc grant from the Swisslos fund.
The council has also allocated funds for other cultural initiatives. A 30,000-franc grant has been provided to support Open House Basel 2026, offering the public free entry and guided tours of around 130 buildings over a weekend. Furthermore, the Kammermusik um halb acht foundation has received a 23,000-franc grant to host two concerts featuring renowned musicians and ensembles.
The Basel Government Council’s recent decisions demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering and supporting cultural events and initiatives in the city. From sound installations and theater productions to large-scale festivals and concerts, the council’s grants and guarantees ensure a vibrant cultural landscape for Basel residents and visitors to enjoy.
