Featured Events in Basel in May 2025 (July Updated)

The exhibition shines a light on the lives of artworks before they came to hang on museum walls, showing traces of their circulation in other contexts and their different functions. Find winged altarpieces, painted on both sides so that they could be displayed differently throughout the liturgical year, and coats of arms that were discretely attached to the backside of objects by their owners, or painted panels that had been simply turned over and reused. There’s even a double-sided advertising panel made by Ambrosius and Hans Holbein the Younger as well as paintings specially designed to be picked up and turned over. Verso thus offers new perspectives on artworks, not just by famous names such as Hans Baldung (also known as Grien), Lucas Cranach, and Konrad Witz, but also others that deserve a second look.

The exhibition "Paarlauf" was held at the Kunstmuseum Basel to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Im Obersteg collection. The exhibition uses an associative exhibition concept to present artworks from Im Obersteg's private collection and the Kunstmuseum Basel collection, exploring the cross-generational dialogue and imagination of art. The exhibition dynamically rotates exhibits, publicly exhibits Marc Chagall's works on paper for the first time, and invites musicians to record matching tracks for the exhibits, creating a unique dialogue between art and music.

Marie Matusz (* 1994) stellt in ihrer künstlerischen Praxis immer wieder Polaritäten her, indem sie Verletzlichkeit und Widerstand in ein produktives Spannungsverhältnis bringt. Dieses künstlerische Anliegen wird die in Toulouse geborene Basler Künstlerin mit ihrem ersten monumentalen, ortspezifischen Projekt im öffentlichen Raum an der Rückwand der Kunsthalle Basel weiter ausarbeiten.

Marie Matusz (*1994) regularly establishes polarities in her artistic practice, placing vulnerability and resilience in productive tension. The Toulouse-born, Basel-based artist extends these concerns as she presents her first monumental, site-specific project for public space, spanning the back wall of Kunsthalle Basel.

Get ready for Europe’s most dazzling, diverse, and talked-about music event of the year — the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is set to take center stage in Basel, Switzerland, from May 13 to 17. With over 40 participating countries, this iconic live music competition will once again bring together an incredible lineup of artists to battle it out with show-stopping performances, genre-spanning music, and stunning visuals. Known for its spectacular staging, elaborate costumes, and unforgettable moments, Eurovision 2025 promises to be one of the most unmissable musical celebrations of the year. Since its debut in 1956, Eurovision has launched the careers of international superstars such as ABBA and Céline Dion, and continues to be a platform where new talent can shine on a global stage. This year’s edition is especially anticipated, as fans around the world look forward to discovering the next big name in music. Hosted in the scenic city of Basel, where the charm of the Rhine River meets modern cultural flair, the event blends world-class entertainment with Switzerland’s unique artistic atmosphere. Beyond the electrifying competition, fans can enjoy a wide range of side events — from the Eurovision Village fan zone in the heart of the city to official parties and themed exhibitions. The energy in Basel will be unmatched, with live performances, cultural experiences, and countless opportunities to connect with fellow fans from across the globe. This year’s contestant lineup is already generating serious buzz, featuring powerhouse vocalists, crowd favorites, and rumored appearances by global stars as special guests. Whether you’re a long-time Eurovision fan or discovering the magic for the first time, Eurovision 2025 is your chance to experience the pulse of Europe through music. So, are you ready to dive into this kaleidoscopic celebration of sound and creativity? Mark your calendars for May 2025 — we’ll see you in Basel! For the latest updates, travel tips, and ticket information, stay tuned to Trip.com and get ready to sing along with the rhythm of Europe.