Holiday Traditions: Klosn in Stilfs

The event in question is the so-called "Klosn", which is celebrated in Stilfs at the same time as Saint Nicholas Day. How this custom originated and exactly where it comes from can no longer be traced today. In the past, the noise ritual was probably located between December 21st and January 6th and was then moved forward in time. The Klosn was passed on orally from one generation to the next, and it is very astonishing how long this custom has been kept alive and how deeply it is rooted in the community.

As part of the "Klosn", the boys of the village dress up in colorful garments, put on frightening masks and also hang bells around themselves. The spectacle is only presented by young men of a certain age group, which today is usually the 20-year-olds. Afterwards, they move through the alleys and streets, shouting as "Klaubauf", "Donkey" and "Scharsch". The donkey reflects the light, freedom, and joy, while the Klaubauf symbolizes the darkness of the season. The run is overseen by the Scharsch, who ensures order. The boys are accompanied by Saint Nicholas (Santa Klos), by four sages dressed all in white, and by the "Tuifl". However, Nicholas remains unimpressed by the boys' noisy activities and follows them calmly. A moment of pause occurs during the so-called Avemaria ringing in the evening, after which the Klosn festival takes place, where food, drink, and music are enjoyed until late into the night.

Klosn in Stilfs

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