What to do during winter in a small European country

So, you find yourself facing a long, dark, snowy winter somewhere in the rugged middle of Europe...what to do with yourself...?

1. Eat as many rolls as you can on Dreikoenigstag "Three Kings Day". By doing so, you might have the good fortune to bite unknowingly into an enamel-chipping miniature king which has been baked into one of the rolls. Assuming you do not need emergency medical care, you get to be king for a day!

Kevin, with teeth intact, sporting his crown.

 2. Sit in the snow and eat hot cheese. Fondue is a sort of national dish (but strangely, most Swiss, when pressed, will tell you that they much prefer Raclette). It is however disputed as to whether it comes from Switzerland or France (Savoy region (Dave will remember the Savoy wine in Evian)). Regardless of it's beginnings, Fondue is a highly entertaining way to make sure that you do not sleep for at least one night (try eating a pound of melted cheese and drinking half a bottle of wine...). It is important to eat your Fondue outside (preferably in the snow). The exact reason for this is, again, disputed, but it is usually because people do not want their houses to smell like hot cheese for the next week.

 Steam rising from the Caquelon.

 

 For the full effect, it is best if it is actually snowing while you eat.

3. Partake in cultural events. We decided to head over to Grindelwald for the annual snow sculpture competition. The day was beautiful, as was the artwork. In addition to large piles of carved snow, there was food (the obligatory hot cheese, assorted sausages, and gluehwein), and music...well it was loud at least.

 

 Some of the snow sculptures.

 

Here is one of the bands taking a coffee break. We are not sure, but it seems they were going for a 1980's disco/jungle theme. How this fits into Swiss culture, I can not say.

 

...and of course, cow bells. There were about 20 guys with gigantic cow bells. As they walked, the bells swung from side to side. It was actually quite melodic. I have no clue why they did not just walk the cows through.

Well, that is enough for now. As the winter blows along, I am sure we will discover more exciting things to do!