Krampus in the USA 2024, World

Let go of your inhibitions and experience a unique Christmas tradition of Krampus. The goat-like character, with horns, hooves, and fangs, sneaks into children's homes on December 5th, before Saint Nicholas Day. He is known as a companion of St. Nicholas, but contrary to him, Krampus punishes children for misbehaving. The character is most commonly celebrated in the Alpine regions of Germany, Italy, Austria, and Slovenia. For several decades now, the United States has been joining in the celebrations and bringing fear and thrill into the holiday season.

Krampus Events

With Krampus gaining more and more popularity across the ocean, numerous cities across the US hold their celebrations of this eerie figure. Krampus Los Angeles gathers hundreds of costumed performers in a thrilling Krampuslauf parade and Krampusnacht gatherings. Known by some as the most haunted city in the USA, New Orleans celebrates Krampus with an annual Krampuslauf. Milwaukee gets rowdy during its annual Krampusnacht in the Brewery District and Krampus Parade.

Portland follows suit with similar Krampus celebrations, Krampus in Columbus promises a spooky night at the haunted house and a joyful stroll through the Christmas market. Denvernot only hosts its own house of horrors experience but also welcomes everyone at a Krampus burlesque show and joyful party at the bar.

Customs & Traditions

The United States keeps some of the traditions of European Krampus celebrations while adding a modern and fresh twist to them. Alpine customs include Krampusnacht (Krampus Night), during which furry figures with horns and fangs visit homes and local businesses, Krampuslauf (Krampus Run), and appearances of Krampus at Christmas markets.

The US, on the other hand, mainly celebrates the devilish companion of Saint Nicholas with Krampuslauf parades. During these processions, numerous participants wear costumes of the spooky character and other Christmas spirits, such as the Yule Cat, and La Befana. Another popular attraction are Krampus-themed haunted house experiences, held by local amusement establishments. Krampus Nights are also common, with the community gathering together for drinks, games, and "Krampus" movie nights.

Krampus Origins

The folklore legend of Krampus first originated in Germany, in central and eastern Alpine region. Krampus, though unique, is considered to be based on other Christmas monsters, such as Straggele, half-goats, half-demons of Switzerland's folklore. Another inspiration is the pagan figure of Perchta, who comes in both beautiful and animalistic forms. First mentioned in the written records in the 16th century, Krampus is also believed to be one of the rituals for the winter solstice.

Christmas in the United States

The holiday season is one of the best times to visit US due to a variety of events, numerous festivities, and merriment. Christmas lights have been one of the traditional attractions, with beautiful light displays in Long Beach, CA, Michigan, and Oregon. Christmas markets draw in thousands of visitors during the Christmastime, with the top spots being Downtown Holiday Market in Washington DC, Christkindlmarket in Chicago, and Christkindlmarket in Denver. If you'd like to enjoy your winter vacation more actively, the US offers numerous skiing and snowboarding opportunities.