The Krampus (German: [ˈkʁampʊs]) is a horned anthropomorphic figure who, in the Central and Eastern Alpine folkloric tradition, is said to accompany Saint Nicholas on visits to children during the night of 5 December (Krampusnacht; "Krampus Night"), immediately before the Feast of St. Nicholas on 6 December.

Mar 17, 2025 · Krampus, in central European popular legend, is a half-goat, half-demon monster that punishes misbehaving children at Christmastime. He is the devilish companion to St. Nicholas. Popular festivities involving Krampus include the Krampus run, in which costumed participates parade through the streets.

Aug 15, 2023 · The origin of Krampus is mostly unknown, but most anthropologists agree that the tradition is pre-Christian, going back to pagan mythology. One authority on the subject believes that Krampus goes as far back as the Wiccan deity of the Horned God of the Witches.

Dec 4, 2015 · The tradition—also known as the Krampuslauf, or Krampus Run—is having a resurgence throughout Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Hungary and the Czech Republic, and has gained recognition in the ...

Dec 5, 2023 · Krampusnacht is a centuries-old tradition celebrated in Germany and Alpine regions, including Austria, Bavaria, Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. However, in recent years the creepy...

Dec 29, 2024 · In European folklore, Krampus is the antithesis of Santa Claus. The equivalent of a Christmas Devil, Krampus is a horrific beast that hunted down misbehaving children and whipped or terrified them into submission. Originally an ancient pagan tradition, Krampus was coopted into the story of Saint Nicholas. Since then, he has been rallied against ...

The Tradition of Krampus dates back to the Middle Ages, and the modern-day version is celebrated in the Alpine Villages of Austria. Krampus is thought to have been part of the Alpine pagan rituals for winter solstice. Krampus is the devilish companion to St Nikolaus.

Jan 2, 2025 · A Krampuslauf (“Krampus Run”) is a performative procession of costumed Krampus, led by Saint Nicholas. Clad in nightmarish masks and furry costumes, Krampus characters create a nightmarish spectacle with erratic movements, melodramatic gestures, and loud clanging bells.

Dec 4, 2018 · The Krampus has been repeatedly boycotted and denounced by child psychologists since 1953 for being psychologically scarring.

Discover everything about the Krampus folklore in South Tyrol and don't miss out on the Krampus Parade 2024 in Bolzano, Meran and Toblach to see their elaborate costumes.