The Perchten - a centuries-old tradition

The time between Christmas and Epiphany is a special one. 12 nights full of magic, myths and scary figures. The so-called Raunächte (Twelthtide) have (has) a much greater significance in Filzmoos than many people realise. During the Raunächte, very special figures have an important role to play: the Perchten. But what exactly are Perchten?

When it comes to Perchten, a distinction must be made between ‘Schönperchten’ (the beautiful perchten) embody fertility and prosperity and are said to bring luck and blessings. The ‘Schiachperchten’ (the ugly perchten), on the other hand, often have frightening, hand-carved wooden masks with horns and animal skins. Their task is to drive away evil spirits and negative influences. They prepare the way for the new year, so to speak.

The best-known figure in this tradition is Mrs Perchta, who is often regarded as the leader of the Perchtenlauf (Perchten Run) and is described in legends as a strict but just figure. According to tradition, she tests people to see whether they are industrious or lazy and rewards or punishes them accordingly.

Twelfthtide traditionally begins on Christmas Eve, i.e. on the night of 24th to 25th December, and ends on the night of 5th to 6th January. For centuries, these twelve nights have been regarded as a mystical time in which the old year is bidden farewell, and the new year is welcomed. Each of the twelve nights symbolises a month of the coming year and it is said that dreams and experiences on these nights can give clues to the new year.

So, take note of what you dream on these nights.

A centuries-old tradition is preserved in Filzmoos that is as fascinating as it is terrifying: the Schiachperchten. With their spooky masks and noisy bells, they drive away the evil spirits from the surrounding area during twelfthtide - a custom that guarantees goosebumps.

But what actually distinguishes the Schiachperchten from the infamous Krampus? While the Krampus is primarily known as St. Nicholas' sinister companion and teaches naughty children to be afraid, the Schiachperchten have a completely different, positive purpose. In Filzmoos, they bring luck and prosperity for the New Year! The spooky figures are often accompanied by witches, who also ensure that good spreads throughout the region. So instead of spreading terror, the Perchten symbolise hope, positive energy and a successful start to the New Year.

If you want to experience the Schiachperchten up close, you have the opportunity to see them every year at the Christmas Idyll in the Hofalmen in Filzmoos. Amidst the snow-covered mountain landscape, the Schiachperchten present themselves in all their splendour - an unforgettable moment for all those who dare.

Don't miss an evening full of customs, mysticism and goosebumps! The 33rd Perchtenlauf takes place in Filzmoos on the 28th December. At this special event, the old year is bid farewell, the evil spirits are symbolically driven away, and the New Year is welcomed with happiness and confidence. 200 different Schön- and Schiachperchten are expected - a spectacular sight that you shouldn't miss.

But that's not all: on the 27th December, the Filzmoos Perchten invite you to an atmospheric witches' party in the Perchten tent. An evening full of magic, dancing and an exuberant atmosphere.

So come along and experience two unforgettable evenings in Filzmoos, because the next Perchtenlauf does not take place until 2026.

photo credits: Angela Jäger