Krampusnacht

 

In parts of Southern Germany, Austria and Northern Italy, Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas as he is more commonly called there, visits on the night of December 5th accompanied by his companions. One of whom is the dreaded Krampus. 

Krampus is a half goat, half man who’s duties include keeping track of who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. The former could be in for all sorts of terrible punishments. For a time in the 19th century, Krampus greeting cards were popular and pretty scary too.

Krampus’s coming is heralded by the sound of cowbells and clanking chains. A basket is strapped to his back to put naughty children in so they can be taken away ….. to where we aren’t sure. With a cloven hoof on one leg and a human foot on the other, horns, a tail and along red tongue, the thought of this creature visiting you must have been pretty scary for children back in the day.

The tradition continues in many parts of Germany and Austria with Krampus parades where men dressed as the legendary alpine creature march through the streets. I’ve seen some videos of this and the Krampus masks are real works of art. Usually done in wood, each mask is unique and quite heavy too. Here’s a great video of one wood carver in Austria who makes Krampus masks to order. 

So you better watch out, you better not cry, you better be good I’m telling you why …… Krampus is watching you!