http://ichef.bbci.co.uk/wwtravel/624_330/images/live/p0/12/31/p012314n.jpg Those hoping to catch a glimpse of Saint Nick before 24 December should head to Switzerland where the jolly(весьма) old fellow makes appearances early and often. On 30 November and 1 December, the ski resort Silvretta Arena Samnaun/Ischgl in eastern Switzerland celebrates ClauWau, or the World Santa Claus Championships. The annual event brings several four-person Santa teams from around the world, dressed from head to toe(пинать) in red and white, to compete in holiday-themed competitions, like chimney(дымоход) climbing, snowshoe obstacle course relays and Santa Clauben, an event where each team must crawl(проверять) under a giant Santa hat and pick up gift-like packages along a course dotted with hay bales and pine trees. The four teams with the fastest combined time qualify for the final obstacle course relay. The team that traverses the obstacle(препятствие) course the fastest wins the title of Santa Claus World Champion, along with 1,500 Swiss francs in prize money. Less athletic teams have a shot to win 300 Swiss francs for best costume during the Santa Parade on 1 December, where a jury evaluates a team’s costumes on originality, authenticity(подлинность) and overall appearance. In the town of Kussnacht in central Switzerland, Santa needs all the exercise he can get to be ready for the Klausjagen (literally translated as “chasing the Claus”) on the night of 5 December. A mix between an ancient pagan holiday and a Catholic celebration, the Klausjagen brings together 1,500 locals in a show of light and sound. At around 8:15 pm, the town lights go out and the sound of whips echos through the town. Then, about 200 men walk the route(маршрут) wearing half- to full-metre-tall paper bishop hats, lit from within by candles and cut with intricate, stained glass window-like designs featuring Saint Nicholas. Soon after, the saint himself arrives with his entourage, wearing a traditional bishop’s hat and red fur cape, with 10 whip-cracking farmers “chasing” him. While early versions of the festival involved the town’s youth running behind Saint Nick, today’s parade has the farmers following behind at a slower, dignified pace. The event concludes with more than 1,000 people playing brass instruments, ringing large bells and sounding cow horns. The chase attracts nearly 20,000 visitors each year, hoping for the Swiss Santa to leave some sweets in their shoes the next morning.
I think this excellent entertainment before holidays. Many people gather. All observe for the occurring
whether you love holidays? what holidays are pleasant to you? how you think, it is amusing? you would like to participate in this action?
I want to say that Christmas and New Year are my favourite hollidays.I like them.I always give presents to my rеlatives and friends.I like to do it.And I like to get gifts.I believe in Father Frost)))And I always wait him...I prefer celebrating this holiday with my family and after 1 o'clock with my best friends...It's cool.And I'm waiting New Year!!!!!!
Well, it is a nice,funny event as for me. It's a pity that such competitions are rare in our city. But as far as i know, there was a "Father's Frost parade in Shatsk or Sasovo, i dont remember exactly.
I've heard about some parades where Santa Clauses take part in. But I haven't heard about this event in Switzerland. "Chimney climbing" - it sounds pretty interesting I want to visit this festival
I think it's very interesting) All those who love the New Year & Santa Claus will not refuse to visit the festival. Including me)) I wonder how much a ticket costs.
Teacher's comment: You've made a mistake in the sentence: "I wonder how much does a ticket cost?" It should be like this: 'I wonder how much a ticket costs.'
I adore Christmas and New Year. And of course, I like Santa . Many people don't believe in Santa But I believe in him!!!! Probably, many people think that it is nonsense!!! But in my opinion, it is necessary to believe in miracles. Then it will come true!!! Reading this article, I learnt about this festival. It is wonderful. I want to visit this place!!!
Teacher's comment: You've got a mistake in this sentence part: '...many people think that it is a nonsense'. Don't use the article 'a' with uncountable nouns.
Many people don't believe in Santa 
But I believe in him!!!! Probably, many people think that it is nonsense!!! But in my opinion, it is necessary to believe in miracles. Then it will come true!!! Reading this article, I learnt about this festival. It is wonderful. I want to visit this place!!!