Silvesterchlausen (New Year’s Mummers’ Festival) is a centuries-old Swiss folk tradition celebrated each year on December 31st and again on January 13th (the old Julian New Year) in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. At dawn, groups of Chläuse—men dressed in elaborate costumes as Beautifuls, Uglies, or Naturals—go from house to house singing yodels (Zäuerli) and offering New Year’s greetings. Their ornate headdresses, some depicting miniature landscapes or churches, are handmade works of art. In return, they receive refreshments and goodwill from the villagers. Blending pagan and Christian symbolism, craftsmanship, and community spirit, Silvesterchlausen is one of Switzerland’s most distinctive and enchanting winter customs.
Planning Silvesterchlausen? We’ll time routes & visiting windows, secure respectful viewing spots, arrange lodging nearby/transport, and share etiquette tips for your dates—Book a free planning call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 31 December 2025 & 13 January 2026 (Wednesday & Tuesday).
• Official rule: if either date falls on a Sunday, celebrations move to the Saturday — outlined by Appenzellerland Tourism.
• Typical hours: 31 Dec early start around 05:00 at Urnäsch village square for “Früechchlausen” — see New Year’s Eve info · 13 Jan activity through the day (e.g., 07:00–12:30 · 10:00–18:00) with local shuttles — see Old New Year info.
• The exact timetable publishes annually — follow the official pages above for any last‑minute adjustments.
LOCATION
• Urnäsch and other Hinterland villages in Appenzell Ausserrhoden (door‑to‑door tradition, no fixed route) — overview on Official tourism page.
• Central reference point for early start: Dorfplatz (village square), Urnäsch — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free viewing along streets and farm lanes; there are no central tickets or grandstands.
• Please observe the municipality’s guidance (keep distance, avoid flash/phone lights, respect private property) — see Municipal notice.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Groups (“Schuppel”) sing/yodel (“zäuerli”) and ring heavy bells; there is no fixed route or parade — background on Official tourism page.
• Museum context and etiquette: Urnäsch Museum.
• Allow time to move quietly between spots; the atmosphere is best enjoyed by listening rather than following closely.
Want a respectful viewing plan that catches the dawn start and the best village moments? We’ll map calm vantage points and timing cues — Hire Tripologiste.