Santa Claus Address – St. Niklaus Exodus (Lucerne)

One of the most impressive Santa Claus appearances takes place in Lucerne.

For more than 100 years, a traditional St. Niklaus has appeared in front of Lucerne's Hofkirche to address the community. We have witnessed this spectacle before, and sure enough: At the strike of 17:00 o'clock, the large wooden door opens and dozens of Santa's helpers appear.

From gnomes to singers and herald's trumpets, they all line up on the large stairs leading up to the church. Finally, Santa Claus in his catholic outfit takes up his position at the top of the stairs. From his book, Santa Claus will read a story for listeners of all ages.

After the conclusion of his appearance, Santa Claus will walk through the crowds of on-lookers in order to visit the children who live in Lucerne's old town.

The freaky yet exciting part about this event is what comes next...

Santas' Schmutzli helpers will use their whips on the visitors. And those who decide to make a run for them will get chased even more! It is really worth sticking around in front of the Hofkirche for a while to experience this crazy tradition...