St. Nicholas and Perchten are an integral part of Advent in the Hohe Salve region. In the weeks before Christmas, processions, visits to houses and traditional events lend character to the town – accompanied by dark figures, the loud ringing of bells and old rituals.
In towns such as Angerberg and Mariastein this tradition is especially archetypal and one which is much nurtured. In contrast, in other parts of the region, the Perchten parades are somewhat more contemporary, with the configuration heavily dependent on individual Perchten groups. There are differences predominantly in terms of the costumes, masks and the involvement of the ‘Fellteufel’, which are in many places part and parcel of the visual identity.
From the beginning of December during the day and in the evenings, numerous St. Nicholas visits and Perchten meet-ups are held – an impressive experience for anyone who would like to experience this thriving tradition at first hand for themselves.
When?
01. - 06. December
Where?
Region Hohe Salve
What?
Perchtenmeet & St. Nicholasprocession
checkSt. Nicholas visits and processions, and little gift bags for children
check"Eerie" performances in the Pertchen parades
checkFamily-friendly atmosphere
checkA first-hand experience of tradition and custom
checkAdvent markets & Food
From the start of December until the 6th December numerous towns in Region Hohe Salve invite you to experience the atmospheric Perchten meet-ups and the impressive devils’ parades. An overview of all the dates is available here – including the traditional groups, impressive masks and unforgettable evenings, filled with tradition and a great ambience. During these events and Perchten meets, which are accessible to the general public, the local clubs provide food and drink and take care of visitor's needs.
The Perchten tradition - what is it?
The Perchten tradition in Tyrol’s Unterland dates back to pre-Christian times . Originally it also served to drive out the darkness and evil withnoise, masks and rituals. To this day, this tradition has been preserved and is a deeply rooted custom in the region.
A focal element of ‘the Perchtentum’ is the so-called ‘Perchtenpass’ – a group that takes part in the Perchten meet-up wearing artistically created costumes an wearing terrifying masks.
In Region Hohe Salve there are typically also:
☑ ‘Tamperer’: They wear embroidered fur robes and beat on old metal cans with their wooden cudgels to create rhythmic drum beats.
☑ Witches: They dance around their cauldrons and are the embodiment of this old tradition.
☑ ‘Glockinger’: Also wearing fur robes and kitted out with heavy bells, they provide an impressive acoustic ambience.
☑ ’Fellteufel’: they were not originally part of the Perchten tradition – in Angerberg, the Perchten meet-up are held just as they were ‘back in the day’, without the ‘Fellteufel’, since these were only introduced later on as a contemporary add-on to the custom.
Contrary to the widely held misconception, the Perchten have nothing to do with St. Nicholas – it was the Krampus that assumed this role. Perchten meet-ups traditionally take place on the ‘Rauhnächte’ around 6th December. Their aim is to drive out evil spirits using noise, movements and by and their very presence and symbolically serve to protect the community. In spite of their wild appearance the Perchten are part of a prized cultural asset, that passionately continues to this day – in loud, energetic, impressive appearances that awaken winter.
In the run-up to Christmas, it is once again about tradition in Region Hohe Salve: St.Nicholas is on his way. His visit has long been a tradition in many of the towns in the region. At numerous events and visits to houses he brings a little surprise for the children. St. Nicholas is often a visitor to many of the Perchten events and meet-ups too.
The significance & sequence of St. Nicholas’ visits
For many Tyrolean families, the visit of St. Nicholas on the 5th and 6th of December is a tradition which is held dear. Accompanied by Krampusses, Knecht Ruprecht and the cherubs Saint Nicholas makes his way through the region's towns , making children's eyes sparkle. With words of praise and little gift bags – packed full of nuts, tangerines and sweeties – he provides a celebratory atmosphere, often accompanied by the sound of bells and music.
St. Nicholas is a regular visitor in Region Hohe Salve appearing at ambience-filled events, such as the Perchten meet-ups, Advent markets, schools and kindergartens.
St. Nicholas goes back to the Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra from the 4th century, who was revered for his readiness to help others, his love of children and charity. In Tyrol, St. Nicholas is more than just a tradition for children – he vividly unites the concepts of religion, tradition and community . His message strengthens co-operation and is firmly entrenched in the identity of Tyrolean culture.
Countdown
The ‘Rauhnächte’
No, it is free to attend public events – all visitors are very welcome!
In essence, dogs are permitted, however to ensure your dog stays safe, you might prefer to leave them at home. These events are loud and raucous - which might be stressful for many dogs.
Yes, the events in Region Hohe Salve are organised in a way that is family-friendly, and they are very well suited to children. Safety comes first – at many of the Perchtenlauf processions the spectator areas are clearly demarcated, for instance with railings and barriers. The event organisers also ensure that the sequence of events is devised in a child-friendly and well-controlled manner.
No, not at all. The Perchtenlauf processions are well-controlled and safe – the Perchten will not harm any visitors. Despite their wild appearance; which is just part and parcel of the tradition.
All ages are very well catered for at official Perchten meet-ups and St. Nicholas events: Delicious Tyrolean treats, mulled wine and punch for children make the event a gustatory highlight too!
