As you get closer to Salzburg on the night of the Feast of St. Nicholas, you might think you’ve stumbled upon a Chewbacca convention. In reality, you’re witnessing the iconic Krampuslauf, where hundreds of men don hairy brown costumes to embody Krampus, a horned figure who accompanies St. Nicholas. While St. Nick rewards the well-behaved kids, Krampus is there to scare the naughty ones.
“It’s like good cop, bad cop,” explains Alexander Hueter, the unofficial leader of Salzburg’s Krampus Run. On this night, Krampuses run wild in Salzburg’s old town, swatting at anyone within reach with their birch branch switches.
Hueter notes that the excitement comes from the darker side of the tradition. “St. Nicholas is nice, but where’s the thrill in that? People crave the chaos that Krampus brings.” Roy Huber traveled from Bavaria just to join in. “The feeling of becoming Krampus is electric,” he says, showcasing his striking yak and goat hair costume.
Another participant, Benny Sieger, reveals that children are often terrified of his punk-inspired Krampus costume, complete with a red face and horns. “If I act kindly, they may not scream,” he says. “But young adults?” He laughs, admitting he doesn’t hold back on them.
Interestingly, while the Krampus Run has a fun edge, it hasn’t always been gentle. Sabeine Gruber reminisces about her childhood, saying, “Back then, it was a lot rougher. You’d wake up with bruises!” Today, Krampuses even wear numbers on their costumes for complaints—proof that the event is safer and more family-friendly now.
Local polls show that many attendees enjoy the blend of fright and fun. A recent survey reported that 75% of families felt this mix added to the excitement of the holidays. Kids like Valentin may tremble in their parents’ arms, but these experiences create lasting memories—even if they come from a place of fear. “One day, he’ll watch this video and be proud he faced the Krampus,” Watziker, Valentin’s dad, assures.
This year, the Krampuslauf remains popular, attracting curious visitors and locals alike. It’s a captivating mix of tradition, terror, and festivity that’s unique to this part of Europe.
For those interested in the cultural significance surrounding Krampus, the Atlas Obscura offers insights into how these ancient customs have evolved over time and remain a staple of winter celebrations in Europe.
