In a significant shift, the annual Klaasohm festival on the German North Sea island of Borkum took place this year without any reported incidents of violence, as confirmed by local authorities.

This popular festival, which is celebrated on December 5th in anticipation of St. Nicholas Day, has historically faced scrutiny for a controversial tradition in which men would strike women with cow’s horns. A recent report by a local broadcaster detailed past instances where women were harassed at the event, leading to discussions about the aggressive behaviors exhibited.

Organizers of the festival announced prior to this year’s celebration that they would be discontinuing the tradition of hitting women and made a public commitment against any form of violence. The local government also expressed support for these changes. According to Borkum’s mayor, Jürgen Akkermann, the violence had its roots in an outdated tradition meant to chastise those who approached the “Klaasohms,” a group of men donned in elaborate costumes made of masks, sheepskin, and feathers. Over the last ten years, there had been a growing awareness of the need for change, although action had not been sufficiently robust until now, as reported by an area news agency.

In preparation for the festival, police increased their presence throughout Borkum, leading up to the event. Approximately 500 participants took part in the parade, which attracted a considerable number of onlookers. When the festivities concluded shortly after midnight, authorities reported no physical altercations or assaults occurred.

Regional police chief Thomas Memering assured the public that any offenses linked to this year or previous festivals would be pursued if they came to light. He emphasized that cultural customs do not exempt individuals from legal accountability.