Next: 5 Dec 2026
Krampusnacht
The Alpine night of the horned Krampus: costumed runners in carved masks and bells walk the streets before St Nicholas Day.
When is Krampusnacht in 2026?
Krampusnacht 2026 is on Saturday, 5 December 2026. Other years: 2027, Sunday, 5 December 2027; 2028, Tuesday, 5 December 2028.
About Krampusnacht
Krampusnacht, 5 December, is an Alpine tradition in which the Krampus, a horned, furry figure from folklore who accompanies St Nicholas, appears to frighten children into good behaviour. In Austria, Bavaria, Slovenia, South Tyrol and parts of Hungary and Croatia, groups of young men, called Krampusläufe, dress in sheepskins and carved wooden masks, wear cowbells, carry bundles of birch twigs and walk in processions through the streets, chasing onlookers in a mix of play and fright. St Nicholas follows with gifts. The tradition is thought to descend from pre-Christian winter customs. Local clubs craft the masks, which can take weeks, and the runs are organised events with safety rules. Krampus cards are sent to friends, with humorous messages.
Krampusnacht dates: 2026, 2027, 2028
| Year | Krampusnacht date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, 5 December 2026 |
| 2027 | Sunday, 5 December 2027 |
| 2028 | Tuesday, 5 December 2028 |
What is eaten
- Lebkuchen
- mulled wine
- Krampus pastries
Traditions of Krampusnacht
Also part of it, and being written: Perchten (The related Alpine masked tradition.), St Nicholas Day (The feast that follows.).
Written by the EveryParampara desk with AI assistance. Background: "Krampus" on Wikipedia. Customs differ from place to place and family to family. If this is your tradition and we have it wrong, tell us.