Deeply rooted in tradition, East Tirol boasts some of the most spectacular Krampus Runs in all of Austria. In December, there will be Krampus Runs and Saint Nicholas Parades in and around Lienz.
It takes a healthy portion of courage to grapple with the wild Krampuses who traditionally accompany Saint Nicholas as he comes to deliver presents to children who have been good. Not only children but plenty of adults too, get a shiver down their spine when they catch a glimpse of these devilish creatures in their heavy furs and wooden masks. These traditional Krampus Runs take place in many towns and villages in East Tirol. The largest is held in Lienz, the biggest town of East Tirol, on December 03, 2023 – the Saint Nicholas Parade and the Krampus Run in the town center. While Saint Nicholas traditionally brought presents to children who had been well behaved during the year, he was always accompanied by the devilish Krampus figures who would punish youngsters who had been bad. The tradition is continued today by groups known as "Krampusvereine", mainly comprising young men who spend much time and energy preparing the heavy animal skins and intricately carved wooden masks known as "Larven" for these few special days a year.
East Tirol Krampus Runs and Saint Nicholas Parades:
- Krampus Run and Saint Nicholas Parade on Johannesplatz Square in Lienz; December 03, 2023, 7:30pm
- Krampus Run and Saint Nicholas Parade in Patriasdorf; December 05, 2023, 7:00pm
- Young Krampus Run in the heart of Lienz; December 06, 2023, 6:30pm
It takes a healthy portion of courage to grapple with the wild Krampuses who traditionally accompany Saint Nicholas as he comes to deliver presents to…
