In Switzerland, the big December visitor arrives on 6 December, not 24 December. Samichlaus comes with his donkey and his helper Schmutzli, listens to a poem or song, reads from his golden book, and hands out a jute bag of mandarins, nuts, Lebkuchen and chocolate. If you are new here, or juggling traditions from two or three countries like many of us, here is how to make it happen.
In Zurich
Samichlaus parade, Bahnhofstrasse (Sunday, 29 November, 17:00). On the first Advent Sunday, dozens of Samichläuse and festive characters parade from Werdmühleplatz to Bürkliplatz, handing out treats. Get a spot on the Bahnhofstrasse side near the start, where crowds are thinner.
Märlitram (29 November to 23 December). A decorated tram where Samichlaus and his angels tell stories during a ride of about 20 minutes from Bellevue. It is for children aged four to nine, who ride without parents. Tickets go on sale on 13 November and sell out fast, so set a reminder.
Samichlaus in the forest, Käferberg (2 to 7 December, 10:00 to 16:00). The Samichlaus-Gesellschaft Zürich welcomes families at a forest hut. It is free and needs no booking. Expect a 20-minute walk from the Bucheneggplatz tram stop. Children often bring a short poem or song, so practise one together at home.
Samichlaus steam train, Sihlwald (Saturday, 5 December). Radio Zürisee runs a vintage steam train from Zurich to the Sihlwald forest, where Samichlaus is waiting. Tickets are needed in advance for children and accompanying parents.
Samichlaus on Ice, Dolder Kunsteisbahn (Sunday, 6 December). An ice disco evening with Samichlaus on the ice. Great for school-age kids who skate.
In Zug
Zuger Märlisunntig (Sunday, 6 December). On Samichlaus Day itself, Zug's old town becomes a fairytale land with around 30 story parlours, a bazaar and carriage rides on the car-free Neugasse, from 14:00 to 18:00. Perfect for children under ten.
In Lucerne
Advent opening, Europaplatz (Saturday, 21 November, 17:00). A whole group of Santas joins the tree lighting, with music and ice shows.
In Schwyz
Klausjagen in Küssnacht am Rigi (evening of 5 December). One of the most impressive Swiss customs. Hundreds of men wear huge, glowing paper mitres called Iffelen and march through the village with cowbells and horns. It is loud, so ear protection helps for small children. Arrive early and dress very warmly. Please check the 2026 programme and timings with Küssnacht tourism before you go.
A Samichlaus visit at home
Many families book Samichlaus to knock on the door on 5 or 6 December. Local societies organise this across the region, often for a small donation. You fill in a form with each child's highlights and "things to work on", and Samichlaus brings it up gently. Search by postcode on chlaus.ch and book in November, as evenings fill quickly.
How families celebrate at home
- Shoes out on 5 December. Children clean a boot and leave it at the door. In the morning it holds mandarins, nuts and chocolate.
- Grittibänz for breakfast. The bread man appears in every bakery around 6 December. Baking your own is a lovely Saturday project.
- A poem or song. Swiss kids learn a short Samichlaus verse at school. Ask the teacher for the words if your child is new.
- One story for mixed traditions. If Santa also comes on 24 December in your house, agree on a simple explanation before the playground conversations start.
Looking for more December ideas? See our guides to Christmas markets and Christmas lights, and sign up for the Momizen newsletter.
Dates checked 30 October 2026. Please confirm with each organiser.
