Switzerland winter
By Devlyn Cornell and Izzy Andrews
Trychle in Meiringen
Midnight on 25 December heralds the start of a rambunctious procession through Meiringen and neighbouring villages in the Bernese Oberland, which will take place every evening up to and including New Year’s Eve.
Traditional attire
Silvesterkläuse in Urnäsch
The “Silvesterkläuse” is a tradition that is almost entirely confined to the Urnäsch area of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. The best-known “Kläuse” wear female or male masks and costumes with huge cowbells back and front and carry enormous headdresses.
Star singing
Epiphany and star singing
“Star singing” is a widespread custom which is practiced, mostly by children, from the last week of Advent to Epiphany (6 January). It takes its name from the star that the singers carry, representing the star that guided the three wise men to Bethlehem.
Foods
The tree
The snowflakes represent the four distinct regions of Switzerland.
The stars represent not only the light from heaven but also the guiding light and the joy of light.
The white candles made of traditional wax represent the pure white season of light.
Only real candles decorate the tree not electric ones.
The star treetop represents the star of Bethlehem.