Klöckl singing

A centuries-old custom

The tradition of Klöckl singing, also known as Kletzigehen, is still widely practiced in Berchtesgaden and dates back to the 15th century. In its earliest form, it was one of many New Year’s customs, with spoken verses and well wishes for the year ahead.

Only later did it evolve into a form of “begging custom,” where people would collect food—especially nuts and Kletzen, dried pears. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, poorer families would go from house to house, as it was believed that hearts were more generous during Advent. Over time, monetary donations became more common alongside the traditional gifts of food.

The Klöckl singers go from house to house

This centuries-old tradition is still alive today. On the three Thursdays during Advent, people would set out at dusk for Klöckl singing. Poor people— especially children — used the custom to add a few special treats to their Christmas table. They went from house to house singing Advent and Christmas songs, receiving apples, pears, nuts, bacon, butter, bread, and sometimes even a few pennies in return. The Klöckl singers wore disguises or masks — after all, few wanted to be recognized while begging from door to door.

The tradition was first documented after 1450. In his “Weltbuch” from 1534, Sebastian Franck described the custom like this: “On the three Thursdays before Christmas, young girls and boys go from house to house through the town, knocking on doors and announcing the coming birth of the Lord. In return, the house owners give them apples, pears, nuts, and pennies.”

Klöckl singing today

Even today, children still go from house to house on the three Thursdays of Advent, singing traditional songs often accompanied by flutes. These days, they usually collect money instead — donations that are often given to charitable causes.

Advent and Christmas traditions

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About the festive season