In Swiss Christmas tradition, the gift-bringing figure who visits children with Schmutzli is Samichlaus.
Samichlaus is the Swiss German form of Saint Nicholas. He traditionally appears around December 6, Saint Nicholas Day, rather than on December 25. In many Swiss communities, he wears a bishop’s clothing and carries a book or sack. His companion Schmutzli, often dressed in dark clothing, accompanies him in Swiss folklore.
Children may recite a poem or song and receive nuts, mandarins, chocolate or other small gifts. The exact appearance and role vary between the German-, French- and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland.
Samichlaus is not simply another local name for Santa Claus. The tradition is tied to Saint Nicholas Day, while modern Santa Claus customs generally center on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Swiss families can observe both traditions in different forms.