Krampus in Italy 2024

In the Alps, Christmas is not just about presents and lights; it's also about horns and fire. In South Tyrol, men and women don Krampus costumes and parade through the snow-capped Alpine mountains. This annual tradition pays homage to the demon, called Tuifl in the local dialect, who, during Christmastime, is said to punish naughty children. Krampus Night, or "Krampusnacht," is traditionally celebrated on December 5th, the eve of St. Nicholas Day.

Traditional Celebrations

There are many parades, known as "Krampuslauf," some of which include over 1,000 Krampus figures, during the Advent season to see Krampus roaming the streets of South Tyrol's towns and discover the different sizes and forms of their scary costumes and masks. Sometimes, the demon-like beasts go after St. Nicholas to reward children with gifts. At other times, standing behind barriers, you can witness the passage of thousands of Krampus and immerse yourself in an eerie atmosphere. While the Krampus once had to follow St. Nicholas, today's Krampus parades primarily feature the Krampus and witches themselves.

Krampuslauf

The most famous Krampus parade takes place annually in Toblach, while Kastelruth hosts a major parade every two years, featuring over 50 groups from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. For a thrilling experience, watch the Krampus roam the stalls at South Tyrol’s largest Christmas market in Bolzano/Bozen. Other notable Krampus events include the Krampuslauf in Brixen/Bressanone, Merano/Meran, and Sterzing/Vipiteno, where you can witness the chilling spectacle of this traditional Alpine figure.

Origins of Krampus

The Krampus, a devil-like figure from the Alpine region, has origins that date back to pre-Christian times. In many areas, the Krampus tradition has blended with the Perchten customs. Typically, the Krampus wears a fur coat or suit and a hand-carved mask adorned with horns. Despite the Catholic Church's efforts to banish Krampus due to its devilish appearance, the tradition has endured and thrives in Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, Czechia, and parts of Italy. In South Tyrol, pine wood is traditionally used for crafting these masks. Notable collections of Krampus, devil, and witch masks can be seen at the Crib Museum Maranatha in Luttach.

Christmas in Italy

Despite its darker traditions, Italy is renowned for its warm and heartfelt Christmas customs. One of the highlights of the Italian festive season is the array of Christmas markets, which can be found in almost every city, with the Rome Christmas Market being particularly notable. For those who enjoy a more adventurous celebration, the Italian Alps and the Dolomites offer breathtaking winter skiiing getaways featuring stunning views and a magical winter atmosphere.