More Appenzeller Hats

Returned to the Olma yesterday and captured these Appenzeller Hüte which are used in the traditional Silvesterklause or New Year’s celebration. The huge hats are worn by men (even the female costumes) and the large cowbells are the same as those really used on cows. Oooof! The Kinder are dressed in another type of Silvester costumes and are made completely of natural woodland materials.
For an interesting description of the Silvesterklause tradition see http://www.appenzell.ch/d/kultur/silvesterklausen.php and to hear a smidgen of the Appenzeller yodeling visit http://www.appenzellermusik.ch/ . Kate Q:-)