Krampusnacht: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Krampusnacht (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Krampusnacht is celebrated on December 5th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Krampusnacht, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about Krampusnacht.

📅 What day is Krampusnacht 2024?

In 2024, Krampusnacht is on Tuesday, December 5th. It is the 1st Tuesday in December; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about December 5, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Krampusnacht is an annual celebration held on December 5 in Germany, various European countries, and Australia. It occurs on the eve of the Feast of St. Nicholas, and involves people dressing up as the mythical creature Krampus. They then roam the streets, chasing and scolding misbehaving children. The Krampus also gives the children bundles of twigs called “ruten” as a reminder of their encounter. This holiday is gaining popularity in the United States as it brings a mix of Halloween’s enjoyable spookiness and the festive atmosphere of Christmas.

📜 Krampusnacht History

Krampusnacht is a festival dedicated to the devil-like creature called Krampus, who is believed to be part human and part goat. He is depicted as a hairy beast with large horns, goat-like hooves, red eyes, and fangs. The appearance of Krampus may vary in different places. In some portrayals, he is shown wearing shackles, and people dressed as Krampus often swing chains to create a dramatic effect. This is believed to symbolize the binding of Jesus Christ by the Devil in Christian legend.

During the festival, Krampus carries bundles of twigs called ruten, which he uses to swat misbehaving children. Families are given these bundles as a reminder of the Krampus’ presence throughout the year, encouraging children to behave well. In areas where Krampusnacht is observed, St. Nicholas also visits to distribute gifts to children. However, if they have been naughty, the Krampus appears to take away the gifts and replace them with coal and ruten instead.

On December 5th, men dress up as the Krampus, indulge in wine, and celebrate in the streets all night. The origins of the Krampus are unknown, but the concept of a horned monster with evil qualities predates Christianity. It is believed that this pagan creature became incorporated into seasonal rituals and eventually became a part of Christmas celebrations.

✅ Krampusnacht Facts

🔖 Krampus cards have names
Krampuskarten are festive cards that feature the Krampus during the Christmas season.

🔖 The Krampus comes with St. Nicholas
In certain regions, the Krampus might pay a visit to homes alongside St. Nicholas, as Krampusnacht takes place on the eve of St. Nicholas’s Feast.

🔖 The word ‘Krampus’ means ‘claw’
Krampus originates from the ancient Germanic word krampen, which signifies a claw and is linked to the frightening appearance of the Krampus.

👍 Why Is Krampusnacht Important

Krampusnacht allows us to enjoy some spookiness right before Christmas. What a creative idea to use Halloween decorations!

Modern-day celebrations such as Krampusnacht keep pre-Christian Alpine folk traditions alive. We appreciate the connection to our history.

To get more people involved in the fun of Krampusnacht, we should celebrate it ourselves. Prepare your best costumes and join in the fun.

🙂 How To Observe Krampusnacht

⚡ Host a costume party
Gather your friends for a costume party on December 5th. All are invited to dress up as the Krampus, and the person with the most impressive outfit will be named the “Krampus of the Year.”

⚡ Set out a schnapps offering
Groups of individuals disguised as the mythical creature Krampus wander around neighborhoods, creating a lively atmosphere. It is a tradition to offer them schnapps before they move on, so it’s advisable to have some readily available!

⚡ Dress up as the Krampus
What could be a more perfect way to celebrate Krampusnacht than by donning the attire of the legendary Krampus? Embrace your inner demon, dress up in your most terrifying costume, and venture out onto the streets to give misbehaving children a good scare.

📅 When is Krampusnacht?

Discover all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Cultural and other 🔗 Children holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Krampusnacht. So be sure to check back soon.