In the mountaintops of Germany and Austria, there is a tradition spanning centuries called Krampusnacht (Krampus night). Held just before Christmas, Krampusnacht features a spooky companion of our beloved Santa Claus, known as Krampus. Discover this ancient character and the enjoyable traditions surrounding him, so you can join in the fun!
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Who is Krampus?
Krampus, pronounced “crohmpus,” is described as a half-man, half-goat with large horns, cloven hooves for feet, and who is covered from head to toe in Fell (fur). He’s known as a devil companion of Saint Nicolas (Santa) who punishes naughty children by swatting them with a bundle of birch sticks. If the child is particularly naughty, Krampus might decide to eat the child or stuff them in his bag and carry them off. This is an embodiment of the German stereotype of horrifying stories meant to keep children in line and out of trouble.
How locals celebrate Krampusnacht and how you can join in
So, what is Krampusnacht (Krampus night)? In Alpine towns in Germany and Austria, Krampusnacht is a lively and family-friendly celebration where locals dress in elaborate Krampus costumes with hand-carved, wooden masks. These locals, typically after a session of drinking, will meet for a parade called the Krampuslauf (Krampus run).
The Krampuslauf is a public event, and you’re more than welcome to join in the festivities by viewing it! The idea behind the Krampuslauf in history was that the people of the village were scaring away any Perchten, or “Alpine spirits” that might be lingering in the streets. This would ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for any children not carried off by the spirit of Krampus.
When Krampusnacht is celebrated
If you’re planning a trip to see Krampusnacht for yourself, you might be wondering, “When is Kampusnacht?” Every year, this holiday takes place on the fifth of December: the day right before Christmas in Germany, which is held on the sixth of December.
Handy terms to know for celebrating Krampusnacht
Planning a trip to the mountains of Germany and Austria to experience Krampusnacht (Krampus night) for yourself? Keep these common terms used around the celebration in mind:
- Fell = fur
- Heimatverein = local cultural association that might organize Krampusnacht events
- Krampus = horned, demonic companion of Saint Nicholas who punishes naughty children
- Krampuslauf = a parade of costumed Krampusse (more than one Krampus) through towns
- Krampusnacht = Kampus night
- Masken = masks
- Perchten = Alpine spirits
- Rute = a bundle of birch sticks carried by Krampus to swat naughty children
- Teufel = devil
Frequently asked questions about Krampusnacht
Thanks to popular horror movies in America, there are many misconceptions and missing information about the role of Krampusnacht (Krampus night) in German culture. Here are the three am häufigsten gestellten Fragen (most frequently asked questions) about Krampusnacht.
Is it scary to celebrate Krampusnacht?
Despite what Hollywood has portrayed of the character Krampus, Germans don’t typically see the celebration of Krampusnacht (Krampus night) as frightening unless they’re very young. In fact, many Krampuslauf (Krampus run) parades feature a “naughty or nice” sticker option for viewers. Those bearing the “nice” sticker can expect candy to be thrown at them by the passing Kampusse (plural for Krampus).
What foods or drinks are traditionally enjoyed during Krampusnacht?
Krampusnacht (Krampus night) takes place at the start of the Advent season, so traditional holiday treats are popular. You can expect the warm smell of Lebkuchen (German gingerbread) along with roasted nuts, Glühwein (warm, mulled wine), and hot chocolate while you celebrate Krampusnacht with locals.
Are there songs for Krampus like there are for Santa Claus?
While there aren’t recorded and commercialized songs for Krampus like there are for old Saint Nick, there are a number of rhymes and short songs about the horned devil. They often involve teasing naughty children or playfully describing how Krampus deals with children who need to improve their behavior.
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