no rudolph here
We saw a lot of things in Bavaria, but the end of year celebration was a particular treat! Our friends Theresa and Florian brought us to a traditional Perchten festival in the small town of Kallmünz. The idea behind the tradition is to scare away any bad spirits before the new year starts. Locals dress up as demons and witches and put on a fearsome show. In some cities, the demons chase people through the streets. In Kallmünz, they wear traditional costumes and use modern pyrotechnics to add to the display. Even with a little background, we didn’t realize what we were about to see. I think the photos speak for themselves...
I would have thought that this festival is too scary for children. But not only did people bring their children to the Perchten show but the actors went right up to little kids! Surprisingly, there were no screams or tears. The kids put on brave faces and welcomed the frightening visits.
Our friends’ daughter, Bianca, is unphased by a visit from one of the witches!
Not all German kiddos have been so lucky. In 2008, one Christmas market banned a Perchten for being too terrifying. But most Bavarians and tourists alike embrace the tradition. We overheard one tourist gleefully shout, “There’s no Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer here! I love Bavaria!”
If the bad spirits do get scared, I think they’ll steer clear of Kallmünz in 2019!
