by Mary McKay

Santa is not the only character in Christmas folklore. Krampus is one of the scariest Christmas characters in tradition. 

Krampus is a figure originating from Alpine folklore. This figure is prominent in many Central European countries, especially in Germany and Austria. With horns, fangs, fur and an extremely long tongue, Krampus is described as “demon-like” or as the “anti-Santa.”

Krampus is most easily described as Saint Nicholas’ opposite. Where St. Nick brings gifts for good children, Krampus brings punishment for naughty ones, even going as far as stealing really bad kids to punish them in his lair. On Dec. 5, Krampusnacht is celebrated, only one day before Saint Nicholas Day.

Today there are festivals and other traditions that celebrate this dark holiday. Krampusluaf, or the Krampus Run, is a parade where participants dress as Krampus in many Central European countries. These parades are chaotic and similar to a St. Patrick’s Day parade. There are also Krampus festivals with costume contests, performances and storytelling events. 

Krampus is also featured in horror movies, merchandise, and “Krampus Cards” which are like Christmas cards but more sinister. 

“When Krampus ate the child in front of the store my fear started,” -Grace Peklo ’25

Although Krampus is more popular in Europe, it has become popular in the U.S. as well. Senior Grace Peklo grew up fearing this tradition. “I always saw it as a scary monster that would eat all the bad kids,” Peklo said.

At 8, Peklo’s fear began when her cousins turned on the horror movie “Krampus”, “At first we were watching Christmas movies, then they turned on “Krampus.” When Krampus ate the child in front of the store, my fear started,” Peklo said. 

From then on Peklo would do anything to keep out of the jaws and claws of Krampus. She did all the chores and anything her family asked of her, which her siblings and older cousins liked to take advantage of.

Although she still carries the fear in the back of her mind, Peklo hopes to go to a Krampus festival sometime in her life and even wants to carry this dark tradition on to her own children and family in the future.

Krampus may be a dark tradition but it is still an important part of many families’ Christmas celebrations. While some people get coal in their stockings, or do not celebrate Christmas at all, some people still have trauma and fear of being eaten by Krampus.