Klosn at Stelvio/Stilfs

"Klosn" in the old mining village of Stelvio in the upper Venosta valley is one of traditions most shrouded in mystery. St. Nicholas' Day falls on 6th December and on the preceding Saturday three groups of 20 year-old young men congregate to take part in an outlandish custom.
They are called "Scheller" (bell-bearers) or "Esel" (donkeys) disguised in motley-coloured rags. On the fronts of their bodies they carry several bells as large as they can handle attached to belts. They make as much din as possible, imitate donkey braying and now and again roll around on the ground.