Around Mount Säntis, the traditional cattle drives up to and down from the alpine pastures follow a defined choreography. The procession is led by Appenzell goats along with boys and girls in traditional dress. Behind them walks the herdsman with his ‘de Geele’ (yellow knee-length trousers) and a milking pail on his shoulder. Three cows with alpine bells, three companions in alpine costume with brown trousers and red waistcoats, and another herdsman in yellow knee-length trousers follow. They are followed by the herds of cows and the owners of the animals, usually accompanied by the Appenzell cattle dog, known as the "Bläss". A cart laden with wooden crockery brings up the rear.
The heavy bells worn by the lead cows are a particular feature of the procession. They ring in harmony with each other and provide a drone accompaniment to the yodelling of the herdsmen. They are also the centre of attention during "Schellenschötten", when they are rung by the herdsmen, with small rhythmical movements. In Toggenburg the procession up the mountain is followed by a celebration on Alp Sellamatt, while in Appenzellerland there are three events during the alpine summer: "Alpstobete", "Jakobifeier" and the Herdsmens' Ball. The season is brought to a close with cattle shows.
