The first Krampus have existed since the beginning of November: Hannes Brugger, chairman of the Salzburg customs associations and ‘chief Krampus’ in Salzburg-Gnigl, also thinks such an early start is wrong.
The Altgnigl Krampusse have reserved the first Saturday of Advent for their running race (November 30 this year). Every year a spectacle takes place with thousands of spectators on the stage, which is secured with barriers. The audience is international: “Twelve buses come from Prague,” says Brugger. He would like to thank the Gnigler economy and the clubs that provide food and stewards.
One devilish event after another takes place throughout Salzburg: classic races are accompanied by Krampus parties and shows. More and more clubs want a Krampus activity that is close to customs. Flashing disco balls, gallows or even Bengal fires are frowned upon. A good Krampus should warn, but don’t overdo it with a ponytail and a cowtail.
Sculptors such as Philipp Gangl from St. Johann are currently very active: repairs are being carried out on new masks (carved from a single piece of pine wood). Horns are re-glued or the upholstery is repaired.
“A larva needs about 40 hours of work,” says the sculptor. Another distinguishing feature between Krampus and Schiachperchten (they walk around New Year’s Eve) are the horns: “Perchten masks have several pairs of horns. On old recordings they are also there around Krampus Day,” says Kenner.
The Krampus custom is particularly original in the Gasteinertal: there is no spectacle in the city centers, but there are home visits. About 100 Krampus passengers will parade through the valley with Santa Claus and the basket bearer on December 5 and 6. “We are proud that it is real,” says Gerald Wenger from Lafener Zirb’n Pass in Hofgastein.
In the Gasteinertal the custom lives on in a particularly original way
Mass products are frowned upon by the Gasteiner Krampusse: masks and furs are rustic. The Zirbenpas bakes gingerbread for the children themselves. Bread is made in advance for adults. And some families give the children sacks ahead of the devilish visit. The long march through the valley is tiring, but the Krampus are happy to take it on: “Most people grow up with it from childhood,” says Wenger.
Markus Ferner, chairman in St. Michael and district representative for all Lungau Krampus passes, is also in the starting blocks: “Now we just need snow for the atmosphere.”
Some people are celebrating a big birthday this year. The people of Elsbeth have 30 years to their name. “Our run (December 7) will be even bigger than normal with eight guest passes,” said Tobias Pehab. The Krampusse are currently still working on their anniversary car.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
