Jesus Christ in Heidi Land
Switzerland
Barmettler Family
Setting – Michel Forest

This nativity scene is a study in Swiss folklore. It shows the trappings of traditional Switzerland, like little Heidi, the accordion player, the tools of the typical dairy farmer, and the stylized silhouette of the famous Matterhorn. The many actors and actresses are dressed in the traditional costumes of Switzerland's many and varied cultural regions. Most of them are from central Switzerland (Uri, Schwyz, Luzern), others are from the northern regions (Zurich, Appenzell), and still others are from the south (Wallis, Tessin) and west (Vaud, Fribourg). The two cows, black and brown, are a reminder of Emmenthal (brown) and Gruyère (black) cheese. In the midst of this display of rich folklore, the Christ child and his parents beg to be sought and found. Where accessories abound, the essential goes into hiding.