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What Is Krampus?

The better question really should be, “Who is Krampus?” The simplest explanation is he’s St. Nicholas’s less holly and less jolly companion. In the Alpine regions of Austria and Germany, On Dec. 6th children eagerly await the arrival of St. Nicholas who rewards them with treats and sweets for their good behavior. Krampus on the other hand is the physical embodiment of getting coal in your stocking. Instead of a friendly visit from jolly old St. Nick naughty children face a visit from the half man half goat nightmare that is Krampus. 

The History Of Krampus

Krampus and several of other of St. Nicholas’s historical bad boy buddies (like Belsnickle and Knecht Ruprecht) have roots that date back to pagan times and then like most things they were absorbed into Christian traditions. Many sources point Krampus’s origins back to Norse mythology citing him as the son of  Hel, the Norse goddess of the underworld. The name Krampus however is all German. The word kampen literally translates to claw which makes sense given his appearance. 

Half-man, half-goat Krampus is often depicted with gnarled horns, fangs, and an overly large tongue. His fur is worn and ragged, truth be told to young children his image is probably horrifying. Especially when you consider he’s on the prowl for bad children to whip with his bundle of birch sticks. Yeah, even as an adult it’ll give you the shivers. 

What Is Krampusnacht?

In German-speaking alpine regions across Europe December 6th is a day for celebration and joy; Known as St. Nicholas’s Day, children throughout the region awake to find sweet treats in their shoes, left for them by the kindly saint. The night prior however is a very different story. December 5th is known as Krampusnacht, or in English, Krampus Night. 

According to folklore, Krampusnacht is the night when Krampus is free to roam the streets doling out punishments to the naughty boys and girls. 

What was once most likely a pretty scary night for many kids, has transformed in modern times into one of the most festive, exciting, and unique holiday traditions in the world. 

What Is A Krampus Run And Why You Should See One

Traditionally, Krampusnacht is celebrated on December 5th. Modern Krampuslauf (Krampus runs) can happen any time during the Advent season. Krampuslaufs usually occur in or near the same squares and plazas as Christmas Markets. 

During the early Middle Ages, villagers began to dress up in Krampus-inspired costumes and parade through town, terrorizing residents (in the friendliest way possible), a tradition that has been carried on through modern times. Nowadays Krampus runs are more of a parade than the free for all they once were, which let’s be honest, probably makes it a whole lot safer and less scary than in times past; But don’t let the “tameness” fool you, the Krampus’s still have free reign to touch, hug, and gently beat you with their bundles of birch sticks- all in good fun. 

It’s a terrifying, hilarious, strange, and joyous experience all rolled into one. 

The costumes of these events are the stars of the show. Many of the masks are hand-carved and can cost thousands of dollars. Participating in a Krampus Run as an actual Krampus is considered an honor and something people aspire to be a part of. 

Where To Experience Krampus Runs 

Krampus Runs happen throughout the Alpine regions of Germany and Austria. Tyrol, Munich, and Salzburg are some of the most famous in the world, although many smaller towns and villages host smaller and more intimate events. 

The best way to find out when and where a Krampus Run will take place is to search Krampus Run + The name of the town you want to see it in. The larger cities in particular are great about publishing the when and where of these events during the holiday season. Keep in mind if you’re planning on visiting one of the larger cities get to the event are early, so you can be sure to have a first row seat to all the action- just be sure you haven’t been too naughty this year or you just might be on the receiving end of Krampus’ wrath! 

One quick note before you go!

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