Krampus Night: The Alpine Tradition of Saint Nicholas

Reveling in the Alpine Folklore Tradition

Krampus Night, also known as Krampusnacht, is a traditional European event that takes place on the night of December 5th, preceding the Feast of St. Nicholas. Rooted in Alpine folklore, particularly in countries like Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Slovenia, Krampus Night is a unique and often playful celebration that involves the mythical creature Krampus.

Krampus is a horned, anthropomorphic figure with a demonic appearance, often depicted as hairy, with hooves and a long tongue. While St. Nicholas rewards good children, Krampus is believed to punish the naughty ones. During Krampus Night, people may dress up as Krampus, participating in parades or events where they roam the streets with clanging bells and chains, creating a festive yet eerie atmosphere.

In some traditions, Krampus is said to carry a bundle of birch branches to swat naughty children, or even a sack or basket to take them away.