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Krampus and Nikolo: An ancient custom in the fight against change!
On December 5th and 6th we celebrate the traditional figures Nikolo and Krampus, who play central roles in the culture of the Eastern Alps.
Krampus and Nikolo: An ancient custom in the fight against change!
On December 5th and 6th, many people in Austria and Germany celebrate one of the oldest traditions: St. Nicholas Day. According to the state party chairman of the Freedom Party, Udo Landbauer, “the Krampus is simply part of Nikolo”. This old custom, which comes from the Eastern Alpine region, combines the legendary St. Nicholas, known for his generous gifts to good children, with the scary figure of Krampus, who often threatens naughty children with punishment. In his statement, Landbauer emphasized the importance of these customs and the essence of the cultural identity that they convey. Despite the critical voices, especially from “woken” educators who are increasingly rejecting Krampus and Santa Claus in schools and kindergartens, the Freedom Party emphasizes its unwavering support for these traditions, which, according to Landbauer, are “not up for discussion.” OTS.at was reported.
The dual tradition of St. Nicholas and Krampus
Customs that come to life at Christmas time in Germany and Austria are deeply rooted in cultural stories and legends. The dualistic relationship between Saint Nicholas and Krampus illuminates a multifaceted folklore that goes far beyond simple Christmas celebrations. While Saint Nicholas, who appears in his bishop's robes, is usually associated with joy and gifts, Krampus appears as a dark, frightening figure who threatens naughty children on Krampusnacht, the eve of St. Nicholas Day, as described in an article by The Cambridge Language Collective described.
Both characters are not only part of holiday culture, but also offer a unique insight into society's values: Santa Claus represents reward and kindness, while Krampus serves as a warning against ill-mannered behavior. In picturesque villages where these traditions are still actively practiced, they become a tangible experience that captivates people and makes both children and adults think. The lively representation of these holidays in winter is an example of how old customs still have great significance today.