Buttnmandl and Kramperl

St. Nicholas and wild figures in fur and straw

For centuries, farmers were deeply exposed to the forces of nature. From this awareness grew a strong sense of faith, reflected in numerous church festivals and religious customs. Nowhere is this more vivid than in the traditions of the Christmas season.

Rooted in Celtic times and later shaped by the figure of St. Nicholas, wild characters dressed in fur and straw—known as Kramperl and Buttnmandl—roam through Berchtesgaden and the surrounding area on St. Nicholas Day, their bells ringing loudly. To this day, this originally pagan custom remains a private tradition in which local families are visited, rather than a public event.

The Buttnmandl of the Bundeswehr Mountain Infantry

While traditional Buttnmandl runs are house-visiting customs that largely take place away from the public eye, the Buttnmandl procession of the German Armed Forces’ mountain infantry holds a special place. Since 1962, St. Nicholas has set out on December 5 from the mountain infantry barracks in Strub/Bischofswiesen, accompanied by his Buttnmandl, Kramperl, Knecht Ruprecht, and a host of angels—drawing crowds of spectators along the way to Berchtesgaden.

Buttnmandl and Kramperl runs

Buttnmandl runs take place in Loipl on the first Sunday of Advent, in Winkl on the second Sunday of Advent, and in Maria Gern on the afternoon of Christmas Eve. On St. Nicholas Day, the lively spectacle can be witnessed after nightfall in many other villages and rural communities throughout Berchtesgadener Land. These are not organized public events, but authentic local traditions deeply rooted in the region’s culture and community life.

Advent and Christmas traditions

  • Christmas shooting

    Christmas shooting in Berchtesgaden keeps Alpine Advent traditions alive with ceremonial gun salutes, festive gatherings, and centuries-old Bavarian customs.

  • Klöckl singing

    During Kloeckl singing in Berchtesgaden, groups dressed in traditional robes go from house to house singing Advent songs during the quiet season.
Advent in Berchtesgaden