What countries celebrate Krampus?

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 United States.

Which country has the Krampus character?

Germany
The legend is part of a centuries-old Christmas tradition in Germany, where Christmas celebrations begin in early December. Krampus was created as a counterpart to kindly St. Nicholas, who rewarded children with sweets.

What country has a Krampus parade?

Austria
Every year, during the weeks leading up to Christmas, Krampus parades are held in the alpine villages of Austria. While the tradition is over 1,500 years old, it is still practiced with much of its original excitement through the Austrian region of Tyrol.

Where is the best Krampus festival?

Austria is home to the largest Krampus Festival and the Krampus Museum, and this is why the legend is so well-recognized throughout Europe. If good ‘ol St. Nick was to have an evil brother who did the opposite of good on Christmas, then it would be Krampus.

Where is the biggest Krampus festival?

Save the Date: Saturday December 3, 2022 (CCEDC) is excited to host the 2nd Annual “Black Forest Krampusnacht” Festival to be hosted on December 3, 2022 in Jim Thorpe, Penna.

Where is the best Krampus parade?

Munich
Munich Krampus Run The “Krampuslauf über den Münchner Christkindlmarkt” might just be the most popular of all the Krampus festivals in Germany. Every year, over 400 Kampus and Perchten alike run through the streets of the Munich Christmas Markets creating quite a scene!

What city celebrates Krampus?

The members of Krampus Seattle have been introducing Washington holiday revelers to the tradition celebrated in Germany, Austria and several Eastern European countries for the past several years. According to the tradition, Krampus walks through the streets to terrify children into being good before St.

Who is Krampus and where did he come from?

Krampus is an ancient character still celebrated as much as St. Nicholas in parts of Germany. Like all the great legendary figures of Christmas his true origin is unknown and like Santa Claus his image has morphed over time. His name comes from the German word krampen, which means claw. Some say he is the son of Hel from Norse mythology.

What does Krampus look like and why is he in Christmas?

Krampus’ image is anything but merry — or like anything else associated with Christmas. He is a beast that looks like half a goat with horns and a bifurcated tongue. He is hairy. And when it comes to Christmas, he is all business. Krampus is an ancient character still celebrated as much as St. Nicholas in parts of Germany.

Does Krampuslauf still exist today?

Like Krampusnacht, the Krampuslauf tradition continues to the present day. The introduction of mass visual media couldn’t help but sweep the charismatic Krampus up in its wave. When the postcard industry experienced a boom in Germany and Austria in the 1890s, it opened the way for Krampuskarten.

What is the origin of the Christmas character Krampen?

Like all the great legendary figures of Christmas his true origin is unknown and like Santa Claus his image has morphed over time. His name comes from the German word krampen, which means claw. Some say he is the son of Hel from Norse mythology.