Krampus run: When the winter miracle becomes a scary tradition!

Krampus run: When the winter miracle becomes a scary tradition!

On December 5, 2024, Austria awakens its scary tradition to new life. The Krampus, a horny monster from the Alpine folklore, celebrates Krampus night - an event that mixes winter amazement with a good dose of horror. Decorated streets and freezing bells refer to the essentials of this custom that comes alive in the Alpine regions from Salzburg to Tyrol. With these festive moves, young men dress in elaborately carved wooden masks and frightening skins, while they pull through the city with birch branches and call them playfully passers. The craftsmanship behind these impressive costumes is noteworthy, and accordingly the mechanical engineer Schmidt describes that he carves up to 20 larvae per year and invests 30 to 40 hours per mask to create these unique works of art, such as reported.

The dark figure of the Krampus has its roots in pagan traditions and is supposed to drive away evil winter spirits. His name, derived from the old German word "Krampen" for "Klue", testifies to the scary role that he plays - as a dark companion of St. Nicholas, who rewarded well -behaved children while Krampus punishes the naughty. This custom has modernized itself in recent years when interest in the eerie festivities grew globally. Against the background of beautiful Christmas markets and snow-covered landscapes, the Krampus night creates an exciting experience that attracts tourists and locals equally, such as viennatimes.com shown.

The multitude of Krampus runs from late November to early December makes the tradition shine in new light. These parades are not only unforgettable for the participants, but also for the audience, since the scary figures, decorated with loud bells and lively masks, pull through the streets and let old customs revive. For everyone who wants to experience the Alpine culture up close, participation in these festivities is a unique experience that both shudder and joy bundles in one.