The traditional Krampus and St. Nicholas parade
The most terrifying Advent event in South Tyrol
December is upon us; autumn is ready to give way to the new season. The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting longer. And, as the Christmas season approaches, so does the traditional Krampus and St Nicholas parade.
For the occasion, the streets of the South Tyrolean towns hosting the event are transformed into a veritable stage. The atmosphere is tinged with gloomy colours and there is an air of fear as the procession winds its way through the streets. But don't be intimidated, take a seat and enjoy the show.
Legend has it...
But who are the Krampus? According to the mythology of the German-speaking areas of Europe, they are frightening figures who descend from the Alpine region. They appear with terrifying costumes, birch whips and faces covered with devil masks, spreading panic to young and old alike.
These devils represent real demons. In fact, they are said to be demons who were defeated by St Nicholas and later became his servants. Tradition has it that on the evening of 5 December, the eve of the day dedicated to the saint, the Krampus accompany him through the streets of the village.
The parade begins at dusk, when the deafening noise of the heavy cowbells they wear announces their arrival. The din anticipates their terrifying appearance of monstrous masks with animal horns, furs with a nauseating smell and chains tied to their feet that screech noisily to the ground. In some parts of the region, the Krampus, instead of demonic masks, wear cloth balaclavas with long red tongues.
Town centres are invaded by these demonic figures in search of adults and children who have not behaved well during the year. While St Nicholas has the task of rewarding those who have been good and to whom he gives small gifts.
This legend is often more associated with religious folklore, but the tradition may have a more ancient origin, dating back to pre-Christian times and more closely linked to the winter solstice.
Places to meet them
As every year, between the end of November and the first week of December, myths and legends intertwine in the streets of South Tyrolean towns and villages. An eternal struggle between good and evil, where the good children win, receiving sweets, biscuits and dried fruit as gifts from St Nicholas.
Take note, we suggest some locations where you can witness this evocative event.
Opening is Nova Levante, the characteristic town in Val d'Ega, which on 16 November from 7pm will host the 6th Krampus parade.
To follow the event linked to the devils' parade in November will take place in some of Bolzano's neighbouring towns, in Bronzolo (23 November) and in Laives (30 November). As well as in Valle Aurina (23 November); in Tiso, Val di Funes (23 November) and Val Casies (30 November).
From 5 to 13 December, you can experience this gloomy spectacle in the Burgraviato area, along the banks of the River Passirio in the spa town of Merano and its surroundings. In Bolzano (8 December), the scary creatures will move between the various exhibitors' huts in the old town. The characteristic noise of cowbells and chains will resound in the air, instilling fear in passers-by. But to bring back serenity and peace will be St Nicholas, who will give sweet gifts to the little ones.
On 7 December at 6 p.m. in Dobbiaco, the Krampus parade, the oldest and one of the largest in South Tyrol, will start from the car park behind the middle school. The procession will wind its way along Viale San Giovanni until it reaches the old town centre, where St Nicholas will hand out presents.
Staying in the surroundings of Bolzano, you can participate in this parade, organised in other neighbouring villages that are part of the area known as the Wine Route, such as Cortaccia and Magrè. Or, take the opportunity to go to the surrounding valleys such as Val Venosta, Val Sarentino, etc. and watch this parade while visiting the traditional Christmas markets.
Let yourself be carried away by the fear and magic of this special South Tyrolean event.
