There are a
number of old customs and traditions still practiced in Prato allo Stelvio/Prad am Stilfserjoch, and the
Parade of Santa Claus Koatlack is a fixed event in the annual cultural calendar. Held at precisely
6 p.m. on 4th December, this parade has in recent years become one of the most spectacular and highly popular events in South Tyrol. Koatlack is the name of the locality where the start of the parade takes place.
Santa Claus, riding through the streets with angels in a carriage, is the bearer of the whip and heads the procession. Next, there are the devils with their scary masks and sheep or goats hair costumes; accompanied by their so-called wild wagons. Once the procession arrives in the square, Santa Clause recites an inspiring poem to the crowd
followed by a large party open to all and sundry.