Traditional characters of Alsatian Christmas

2. 2. Saint Nicolas, the emblematic figure of Christmas in Alsace

Celebrated every year on 6 December, Saint Nicolas is a key figure in the end-of-year festivities in Alsace. As the protector of well-behaved children, he distributes sweets, brioches and gingerbread. Every winter, the parades and events surrounding Saint Nicolas attract large numbers of visitors to Alsace’s Christmas markets, adding to the warm atmosphere of Advent.

© B. Salmanski – ADT

2. 2. Hans Trapp, the Alsatian bogeyman

Less well known to the general public but just as memorable, Hans Trapp embodies the darker side of Alsatian Christmas. Inspired by a feared ancient lord, this character sometimes accompanies Saint Nicolas to remind disobedient children to behave. A veritable Alsatian bogeyman, Hans Trapp is part of local folklore and enriches the history of Christmas traditions in Alsace.

iNFRA – GAP Berstett – ADT

2. 2. Christkindel, the magic and light of Christmas

Unlike Hans Trapp, Christkindel brings sweetness and hope. Dressed in white and often depicted as an angel, she comes to reward deserving children on Christmas Eve. In many Alsatian villages, Christkindel occupies a central place, sometimes even more important than the modern Father Christmas. This figure illustrates the spiritual and poetic dimension of Alsatian Christmas.

iNFRA – GAP Berstett – ADT

2. 2. A living heritage handed down from generation to generation

Alongside these main characters, other figures such as Hans Muff and Knecht Ruprecht add to this rich imagination. These Alsatian traditions are still alive and well today, thanks to village festivals, family storytelling and the entertainment on offer at Alsace’s Christmas markets.

2. 2. Conclusion

The traditional characters of Alsatian Christmas are much more than mere legends. They embody the soul ofAlsace through its customs, its stories and its end-of-year festivities, which are unique in France. From Saint Nicolas to Hans Trapp and Christkindel, Christmas in Alsace is an authentic cultural experience, a blend of enchantment and popular heritage.

catherine Theulin OT Kochersberg