Krampusnacht is an Austrian and German celebration in honor of the Krampus, a creature from folklore who accompanied St. Nicholas on his holiday rides. The Krampus is a sort of devilish anti-Santa, who punishes naughty children instead of giving presents.
Klagenfurt, Austria, is known for putting on one of the largest Krampus festivals in the world, and the nearby town of Suetschach even has a museum dedicated to Krampus history and lore.
In late November, Klagenfurt celebrates with the Krampuslaufen — a festive run that’s typically accompanied by fantastic costumes, as well as a good deal of spirited drinking. It all leads up to Dec. 6, when the less fearsome Feast of St. Nicholas is held. Other “traditional” Austrian Krampus events can be found in Graz and Salzburg.
Now seeing a major surge in popularity, Krampusfests have begun to crop up all over the United States. One takes place every year in Los Angeles, where the festivities stretch throughout the month of December. Krampus activities were held in Washington D.C., Philadelphia and Charlotte, N.C.. There was even a Krampus Gras going on this year in New Orleans.
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