Krampus facts for kids
Krampus is a scary, horned creature from European folklore. People describe him as being half-goat and half-demon. During the Christmas season, Krampus's job is to punish children who have been naughty. This is the opposite of Saint Nicholas, who gives gifts to well-behaved kids. Krampus is a companion of Saint Nicholas in many places, like Austria, Bavaria, Croatia, and Hungary. No one knows exactly where Krampus came from, but some experts think he might be even older than Christianity.
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Who is Krampus?
Krampus is a legendary figure, often shown with horns, a long tongue, and shaggy fur. He is part of the Christmas traditions in several countries. Unlike Santa Claus, who rewards good children, Krampus focuses on the bad ones. He might carry chains, bells, or even a birch branch to swat misbehaving kids. Sometimes, he carries a sack or basket to carry away truly naughty children.
Krampus and Saint Nicholas
In many parts of Europe, Saint Nicholas visits homes on the night of December 5th, which is Saint Nicholas Eve. He brings gifts like candy and toys for good children. But he doesn't come alone! Krampus often joins him. While Saint Nicholas asks children if they've been good, Krampus is there to deal with those who haven't. This tradition shows the idea of both reward and punishment during the holiday season.
Where is Krampus from?
Krampus is most well-known in the Alpine region of Europe. This includes countries like Austria, Bavaria (a part of Germany), Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia, and parts of Northern Italy. Each region might have slightly different stories or ways of celebrating Krampus.
The exact origin of Krampus is a bit of a mystery. Some experts believe his story comes from ancient pagan traditions. These traditions might have celebrated the winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year. Over time, these older beliefs mixed with Christian traditions, leading to the Krampus we know today.
Krampus Today
Today, Krampus is still a popular figure in many of these regions. People celebrate with "Krampus runs" or "Krampuslaufen." During these events, people dress up in elaborate, often scary, Krampus costumes. They parade through the streets, making noise with bells and chains. These events are a fun and exciting part of the holiday season for many communities. They are a way to keep old traditions alive and celebrate the unique folklore of the region.
Images for kids
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1900s illustration of Saint Nicholas and Krampus visiting a child
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A person dressed as Krampus at Morzger Pass, Salzburg, Austria
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A 1900s greeting card reading 'Greetings from Krampus!'
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Dallas Krampus Society Walk, 2016
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Krampus mit Kind ("Krampus with a child") postcard from around 1911
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Krampus and Saint Nicholas visit a Viennese home in 1896
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Nikolaus and Krampus in Austria in the early 20th century
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A Krampus from Sveti Martin na Muri, northern Croatia, at local carnival in Čakovec (2015)
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Washington DC Krampusnacht walk (2016)
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A St. Nicholas procession with Krampus, and other characters, c. 1910
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St. Nikolaus with 12 Krampuses in Berchtesgadener Land, Germany (2016)
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In Sexten, Italy (2016)
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A modern Krampus at the Perchtenlauf in Klagenfurt (2006)
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Krampus in Toblach, Italy (2006)
See also
In Spanish: Krampus para niños
