Culture Shock! Austria - A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

202 CultureShock! Austria

In the Rauris valley in Salzburg province, the legendary

beaked Perchten of Rauris are out on the eve of 6 January,

warding off mischief from house and farmstead and ensuring

that everything is clean. The half-bird, half-witch costume is

worn chiefly by men. Their beaks are about 60 cm long, and

their clothing includes overalls, headscarves, baskets worn on

the back, wooden scissors and brooms. If a home is found

The Glöckler of Ebensee, wearing exquisite lighted caps, get ready to dance

in front of various homes on the eve of 6 January.