Chlausjagen – a custom that has its roots in the Middle Ages and attracts numerous Trychler from their homes on 5 December. The Chlaus hunters try their way through the night and make their way up the Walchwilerberg with their bells.

The Chlaus hunt

Two worlds mix in the Chlausjagen. The noisy nocturnal procession of demonic incantations and the Christian custom of the gift-giving, benevolent St Nicholas. On 5 December, the Chlausjäger parade through the village in smaller (at least 3 Chlausjäger) or larger groups. It starts with the children at 4.00 pm and from 7.00 pm onwards, the big hunters join in the action all night long.

The traditional group is dressed in a white shepherd's shirt and a pointed cap. Each group carries an artistically decorated, illuminated Inful (Ifele). Larger groups are accompanied by one or two Geislechle horses. At various times, the wild custom of chasing the Klaus threatened to degenerate to such an extent that the community fathers had to steer the boisterous goings-on into gentler channels.