Samichlaus Tradition Faces Recruitment Challenges in Urban Areas
The annual Samichlaus celebrations are facing recruitment issues in urban areas of Zurich, where high demand meets a shortage of new Samichlaus figures. In cities like Winterthur and Zurich, bookings filled quickly, but the St. Nikolausgesellschaft Zürich struggles with a lack of trained replacements post-COVID-19. In contrast, rural regions show a healthy supply of successors, with active participation from younger generations, particularly in areas like Dietikon and Sarganserland. Local traditions remain strong, attracting large audiences and preserving the festive customs.