Search results
The Krampus is a horned anthropomorphic figure who, in the Central and Eastern Alpine folkloric tradition, is said to accompany Saint Nicholas on visits to children during the night of 5 December ( Krampusnacht; "Krampus Night"), immediately before the Feast of St. Nicholas on 6 December.
Krampus, in central European popular legend, a half-goat, half-demon monster that punishes misbehaving children at Christmastime. He is the devilish companion to St. Nicholas. Popular festivities involving Krampus include the Krampus run, in which costumed participates parade through the streets.
Krampus is one such character who comes from folklore in Austria’s Alpine region, where he’s been frightening children and amusing adults for hundreds of years.
- Jess Zimmerman
- Krampus is a Christmas demon. Who is Krampus? In Austria and across the German-speaking Alpine region, the demonic character is a crucial part of the holiday season.
- December 5 belongs to Krampus. If you survive, you might get presents. December 5 is Krampusnacht, when Krampus reigns. In the real world, people might attend Krampus balls, or young men from the local Krampusgruppe might don carved wooden masks, cowbells, chains, and elaborate costumes to run through town in a Krampuslauf (Krampus run), frightening and sometimes beating bystanders.
- Krampus may be a monster, but he pals around with Santa. Originally, Krampus was a purely pagan creation, said to be the son of Hel from Norse mythology.
- Krampus revelers will hit, push, and whip spectators at their parades. The Krampus of legend whips people with his birch bundle, but he’s a literal demon.
Dec 5, 2018 · Santa's got some competition: a terrifying Christmas devil named Krampus, which is catching on in pop culture worldwide.
Oct 29, 2022 · According to legend, Krampus is a hooved creature that accompanies Santa Claus around Christmas to mete out punishment to naughty children. If you're lucky, you might just get hit with a birch branch.
May 22, 2017 · In Germany, Austria, and other Alpine cultures, Santa Nicholas has a scary sidekick: Krampus. This Christmas demon is responsible for punishing children who Saint Nick has put on his naughty list—and the punishments are worse than a lump of coal in your stocking!