Krampus season starts: new masks, old traditions in the district

Krampus season starts: new masks, old traditions in the district

In the district of Völkermarkt, the preparations for the upcoming Krampus runs are in full swing. The traditional events that have a permanent place in the cultural agenda in the region attract not only local groups, but also participants from far away.

The Black Soul group will be organizing its course on November 9th at 6 p.m. in the Völkermarkt industrial area. Franz Leodolter, a member of the group, reports that around 50 groups from all over Austria are expected that evening. In addition to the run, two Krampus masks and various material prizes are raffled off. The Black Soul group, which consists of 19 members, will take part in twelve other runs in the season and was also active on October 26 and 27 October at the first mask exhibition of the Creatures of Hell.

engagement of the Krampus groups

The Krampusgruppe Village of Death, which is 30 members strong, is also looking forward to the coming season. Your run will take place on November 22nd from 7 p.m. at the main square in Bleiburg, to which 35 groups were invited. This group also bought 11 new masks and skins this year to offer the participants a fresh and attractive appearance.

Another highlight in the district are the Grafner Schlossbergteufel, whose own run begins on November 24th in handles at 4.30 p.m. 30 guest groups are expected here who can come up with new skins and masks. "We have excellent outfitters," says Stefan Bierbaumer, the group member, and looks optimistically into the season. In the past few months they have already been present at various exhibitions, including one in Hallein from November 1 to 3.

masks and skins in focus

The group Creatures of Hell has already started their preparations for the Krampus season at the beginning of the year and is planning a mask exhibition in grip. On October 26 and 27, the members present their new equipment here and invite everyone interested to stop by. They take part in a total of 13 runs and plan numerous home visits between December 4th and 6th.

The masks and skins have received a lot of attention again this year. "Our masks were made by Robert Mitterer, while the skins of Gink Gwandl come from Salzburg," we find out. In doing so, the groups not only underline their connection to this tradition, but also show their commitment to keep the cultural customs alive.

More details on these activities are in a report by www.meinbezirk.at to read.