Spotting stars at Art Basel

Attracting more than 75,000 art lovers and übercool contemporary art fans, and with 285 leading galleries from 34 countries, this is the Grandaddy of all art shows. It's also your chance to spot new talent and perhaps even some celebrities. Among the star artists, Ai Wei Wei, Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry (dressed as a woman or as a man) are tipped to attend. Among the celebrities, Brad and Angelina and Robert De Niro have all been seen here shopping for something to hang on their walls. Head out to the rest of the city for the many side events including Art Parcours in Kleinbasel, a series of site-specific sculptures, interventions and performances by emerging and renowned international artists.

19 - 22 June  

Banging beats at Basel Tattoo

With over 120,000 visitors each year the Basel Tattoo is the city's most popular event. This year it lights up the Kaserne for its ninth edition. The festival encompasses military music with dance, a light show, choreography and a spectacular firework display. Dominik Nyfenneger from the event explains it's success: ‘'The drum is an integral part of Basel's culture, we have Fasnacht, so Baslers love it. But visitors also come from all over Switzerland and beyond." Some of the more exotic acts include the Singapore Armed Forces band and hopefully (still yet to be confirmed) the Changxing Lotus Dragon Folklore Group from China, bringing performances that will transport you to the Orient. From the bagpipes of bonny Scotland to the didgeridoos of Down Under, it's a musical world tour in military style.

18 - 26 July  

WIN TICKETS!

Would you like to experience Basel Tattoo for yourself?

Hello Switzerland has 3 pairs of tickets to give away. Leave a comment on this article, letting us know why you want to be at the Tattoo. We will choose three winners on 7 July. Good luck!

Photos:Basel Tattoo/Straub, Art Basel 2013/Aaron Curry