The Basler Fasnacht starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday at precisely 4:00 am with the Morgestraich. All the lights in the old town of Basel are turned off, the only light remaining comes from the lanterns of the Cliques. The Fasnacht lasts for 72 hours and ends on Thursday morning at 4:00 am. Basler Fasnacht is often referred to as the three most beautiful days. The parades taking place on Monday and Wednesday afternoon are called Cortège.