Traditions

Each year, recurrent events take place in every city and community which can be traced back to older and more recent traditions and customs. They characterise the regional identity, and encourage solidarity and the identification of the residents with their hometown. Events like the Maienzug (May Procession) and Maienzug Eve, the Bachfischet Procession and the New Year’s Reception are firm fixtures in the schedule of Aarau’s traditions.

The Maienzug – the festival of all festivals in Aarau

The Maienzug is the most important festive day in Aarau and takes place every year on the first Friday in July.

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Bachfischet – a custom from the Middle Ages

When hundreds of Aarau’s school children walk through the city chanting this verse and carrying their lovingly made colourful lanterns it must be Bachfischet time!

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New Year's Reception

The city council and New Year’s Commission come up with something different every year to celebrate New Year’s Day and welcome the residents of Aarau to the New Year.

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"Rüeblimärt"

Aargau is the carrot canton. Proof of this is provided by the Aarau "Rüeblimärt" (carrot market), which takes place annually on the first Wednesday in November and attracts over 30,000 visitors.

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