Origins and Folklore
Krampusnacht is celebrated every year on 5th December across Austria, Germany, and other Alpine regions. The name “Krampus” comes from the German word krampen, meaning “claw.” Krampus is depicted as a half-goat, half-demon creature who accompanies Saint Nicholas on the eve of St. Nicholas Day (6th December). While Nicholas rewards good children with gifts, Krampus punishes the naughty ones with birch rods or symbolic bundles of sticks.
This duality, with light versus dark, reward versus punishment, reflecting ancient winter rituals that honoured both the blessings and hardships of the season.
The Celebration
On 5th December, Alpine towns come alive with Krampus runs (Krampuslauf). These parades feature costumed participants dressed as terrifying Krampus figures, complete with horns, fangs, and fur. They march through the streets with fiery torches, cowbells, and rattling chains, creating a chilling spectacle.
Austria: Villages in Tyrol and Salzburg host elaborate parades where Krampus chases onlookers, blending fright with fun.
Germany: Southern regions celebrate with similar traditions, often alongside Christmas markets.
Modern Spread: Krampusnacht has gained popularity worldwide, with events now held in the U.S. and other countries.
Best Places to Celebrate
|
Location |
What to Expect |
Why Visit |
|
Salzburg, Austria |
Large Krampus parades with hundreds of costumed participants, fiery torches, and Alpine music. |
Famous destination blending medieval charm with folklore. |
|
Tyrol, Austria |
Traditional Krampuslauf through mountain villages, with handmade wooden masks. |
Authentic, rural atmosphere close to the tradition’s roots. |
|
Munich, Germany |
Krampus appearances at Christmas markets, plus organised parades in the city centre. |
Easy to combine with festive shopping and Bavarian culture. |
|
Berchtesgaden, Germany |
Historic Krampus traditions with elaborate costumes and strong community participation. |
Dramatic Alpine backdrop and deeply rooted folklore. |
|
Vienna, Austria |
Modern Krampus events alongside Christmas markets, often more theatrical than rural parades. |
Perfect for travellers seeking both urban culture and folklore. |
Travel Tips
- Timing: Always 5th December, the eve of St. Nicholas Day.
- Atmosphere: Expect loud bells, fire, and playful scares, it’s thrilling, not truly dangerous.
- Family-Friendly? Yes, though younger children may find Krampus frightening.
- Photography: Bring a camera, Krampus costumes are works of art.
- Combine With: Christmas markets, Alpine skiing, or cultural tours in Austria and Bavaria.
Why Go
Krampusnacht is more than a festival; it’s a living piece of Alpine folklore. Experiencing it in Austria or Germany means stepping into centuries-old traditions where fear and festivity intertwine. It’s a rare chance to see how communities keep their heritage alive while welcoming curious travellers.
Key Takeaways
Date: 5th December
Location: Austria, Germany, and Alpine regions.
Tradition: Saint Nicholas rewards good children; Krampus punishes the naughty.
Modern Appeal: A growing global fascination with dark folklore and festive spectacle.
Krampusnacht is a striking example of how folklore continues to shape modern celebrations, offering a thrilling counterpoint to the warmth of Christmas. It’s a night where fear and festivity walk hand in hand, reminding us that even in the season of joy, shadows still dance.
Books
Title The Krampus and the Old, Dark Christmas: Roots and Rebirth of the Folkloric Devil
Author: Al Ridenour
Published: Feral House (2016)
Description: A detailed exploration of Krampus’ history and cultural significance.
Formats
Paperback (most common) ISBN 9781627310345.
Leather-bound collector’s edition. Rare, premium format available through resellers like eBay.
EBook: Kindle Click Here
Availability
Amazon UK: Paperback editions are available, typically priced around £23–£30.
AbeBooks UK and Fruugo UK list paperback imports.
eBay UK offers both paperback and rare premium leather-bound editions (the latter at a much higher price at £139).
Summary
If you’re in the UK, the most reliable option is to order the paperback via Amazon UK or AbeBooks UK, with delivery times ranging from a few days to two weeks depending on the seller.
Title: Krampus: The Yule Lord
Author: Brom
Description: A dark fantasy novel weaving Krampus into a modern narrative.
Formats
Book versions:
Paperback (most common): ISBN 9780062095664, published by Harper Voyager. Click Here
Hardcover (limited availability) Rare collector’s editions sometimes appear via resellers. Click Here
E: reader: Kindle. Available through Amazon UK for digital readers. Click Here
Illustrated Edition: Includes Brom’s artwork throughout, making the paperback especially popular.
Audio Book: Audible Click Here
Available on: World of Books, Amazon
Title: Krampus: The Devil of Christmas
Author: Monte Beauchamp
Description: Features reproductions of vintage Krampus postcards.
Formats: Mostly Hardbacks
Availability: eBay UK: Multiple sellers offering hardcover editions (2010 release), priced between £11.99–£17.57.
Krampus and Friends: Tales of Terrifying Christmas Monsters
Description: A collection of folklore stories about Krampus and similar figures.
Formats
Paperback (most common): Standard trade paperback, often imported from the U.S.
EBook: Kindle https://amzn.to/4rxmQQu
Availability:
Amazon UK: Paperback edition, priced around £19.99. Click Here
eBay UK: Multiple paperback listings, typically £13–£15.
OnBuy.com: Paperback edition available for about £13.48.
Story of Krampus: A Short Horror Story for Children
Author: Dawna Flowers
Description: A child-friendly horror tale introducing the folklore.
Formats
Paperback (most common) ISBN 9781717385468.
Availability
Amazon UK: Paperback editions are available, typically priced around £7.99–£9.50. Click Here
eBay UK: Multiple paperback listings, priced between £8.40–£8.91.
Title: Krampus and Other Yuletide Tales
Description: Anthology blending Krampus with other winter myths
Formats
Paperback Standard trade paperback, widely available.
Hardcover: More expensive, often marketed as collector’s editions.
E Reader: Kindle Click Here
Availability
Amazon UK: Paperback edition priced around £17.91. Click Here
Amazon UK: Hardback Click Here
eBay UK: Multiple listings, including paperback (£24.89–£30.72) and hardcover (£36.99).
AbeBooks UK: Hardcover editions available (£31.40).
over editions available (£31.40).
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