Krampus in Germany 2024, Bavaria

In the Alpine region, St. Nicholas Day is still celebrated on the 6th of December. And while most of the kids are waiting for the presents and sweets, some of them are scared of an evil, scary, devil-like figure called Krampus. He comes with the darkness to catch and punish naughty kids.

This beast-like demon with fur and goats' horns appears on the streets on the Eve of St. Nicholas Day. While St. Nick brings gifts and joy, Krampus gives the bad kids a whip and horrible nightmares. Some especially naughty kids are taken in a sack to Krampus's lair deep into the underworld.

Krampus Parade in Germany

If you are visiting Germany in early December, try not to miss this centuries-old tradition called the Krampus Run in Bavaria. This is a kind of Krampus parade, where they roam the streets and search for bad kids. Usually, these are young men dressed in scary costumes with carved wooden masks, huge horns, and long hair. Krampus also carries bells to announce his coming.

One of the most popular parades is the Munich Krampus Run, where around 300 Krampuses, Perchten, and Klause march through the city, interacting with the audience. Another notable Krampus tradition is the Kramperln and Buttnmandl in Berchtesgaden. Since 1962, on December 5, locals and visitors have been able to see Saint Nicholas accompanied by his Buttnmandln, Kramperln, Servant Rupert, and angels as they make their way through Berchtesgaden, visiting local homes. Similarly, a fascinating tradition takes place in Oberammergau.

Krampus Legend

A Central European legend says that Krampus is a half-goat, half-demon monster who punishes naughty children during the Christmas season. It is believed that his name comes from the German word Krampen, which means "claw." In Germany, during the night, known as Krampusnach, these scary goat-like monsters capture naughty children in a basket to take them down to the underworld.

Today in Germany, there is Krampusläufe ("Krampus runs"), where people dressed in frightening Krampus costumes compete to create the scariest appearance. The Krampuses parade through city streets, aiming to frighten the audience by interacting with them and sometimes even chasing them. At the same time, in small towns, you can often see how St. Nicholas, together with the Krampuses, visit homes where children live.

Other Christmas Events in Germany

Germany is a magical place to feel a cozy atmosphere, participate in unique traditions, and immerse yourself in a European Christmas wonderland. For the best experience and long-lasting memories, you should visit buzzling Christmas markets, test yourself on New Year's Ski Jumping (Neujahrsskispringen), and finish this fabulous season with New Year’s Eve (Silvester) in Germany.