In the Appenzellerland, they celebrate the turn of the year—New Year—twice! This peculiarity has its origins in the Gregorian calendar reform—a confessional dispute that broke out in the 16th century when Pope Gregory XIII improved and adapted the Julian calendar. The Protestant canton of Ausserrhoden refused to recognize the new Gregorian calendar. Although the new calendar prevailed, New Year's Eve here is also still celebrated on 13 January, according to the Julian calendar. This event, which features elaborately costumed mummers, the Silvesterchläuse, this year will be celebrated on both Tuesday, December 31, and Monday, January 13, as neither fall on a Sunday; in years when those dates fall on a Sunday, the mummers go out on the Saturday evening before.
On both these evenings, the Silvesterchläuse mummers roam the streets. There are three types, known as “schöne Chläus,” “wüeschti Chläus,” and “Naturchläus.” The beautiful “schöne Chläus” wear ornamental headgear depicting scenes from rural life, lovingly made by hand over hundreds of hours. The wild “wüeschti Chläus” and natural “Naturchläus” boast artful, wildly decorated hats, bonnets, and masks. The mummers meet up in the early morning hours, walking from door to door singing and yodeling to wish everyone a Happy New Year. They stay out until midnight, visiting the inns in the vicinity during the evening.
The Silvesterchlausen is celebrated in various municipalities in the Appenzell Hinterland and Midland regions from dawn until night-time. There is no defined timed procession. Each Silvesterschlausen-Schuppel (group) moves from house to house as they please. As the event lasts well into the evening, consider an overnight stay in one of the villages to experience this 400 years-old tradition to it’s fullest.
How to Behave: Observe the Silvesterchläuse from a respectful distance. Keeping your distance and behaving calmly and discreetly is particularly important in front of private homes. You may photograph the Chläuse from a distance of a few meters. After they have delivered their well wishes for the coming year, it is recommended to maintain a moment of silence to allow what you have heard to sink in. Please refrain from applause and instead express your appreciation with a respectful “Bravo.” Enjoy the Silvesterchlausen above all acoustically. Flashing lights and mobile phone lights can distract from the mystical, sensual, and sonorous atmosphere.
Visitors are generally recommended to take public transport, although depending on the municipality, there are various parking options available. Visit the official website for a list of participating municipalities.

Website
appenzellerland.ch/en/inform/typical/silvesterchlausen.html

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