Greth Schell

You can count on seeing strange figures known as "Lölis" around Zug on the Monday before Shrove Tuesday.

They go around the Old Town carrying pigs' bladders on stick (balloons today). This goes back to the days when a Margarethe Schell of Zug, or Greth Schell as she was known, used to have to go and collect her drunken husband in a basket from the inns he frequented to bring him home. Today the tradition is upheld by the Carpenters', Turners' and Coopers' Guild, whose members go through town disguised in costumes and these fool's caps. To ensure it is not too alarming, they distribute bread rolls, sausages and oranges at the same time.

Further information:

• Date: Every year on Monday before Shrove Tuesday
• Time: 4.00 – 5.00 pm
• Location: Old town