Krampus and Perchten runs in Tyrol

Krampus has a long tradition in Tyrol. The Krampus is the wild companion of St Nicholas and, according to tradition, is supposed to punish bad children. In some regions, the figure of Krampus has merged with that of the "Percht". In Tyrol, the performances of the Krampus, Tuifl and Perchten are very popular. During parades and Krampus runs, the traditional groups parade noisily through the streets with their costumes and elaborately carved wooden masks - an exciting spectacle for the onlookers.

There are different customs and names for the Krampus tradition in all regions of Tyrol. In some places, the Krampus is referred to as Kramperl, the devil (Tuifl) or Percht, whereby the Krampus is considered to be the wild companion of St Nicholas and the Perchten probably go back to the Alpine legendary figure of the "Perchta". In contrast to Krampus, the Perchten are usually dressed in viola robes and not furs. According to ancient tradition, the Perchten are supposed to drive away the evil winter spirits with their bells - the Krampus in turn punishes naughty children.

Krampus runs take place almost everywhere in Tyrol, with each region having its own rituals and specialities. The Perchten runs are particularly popular in the Tyrolean lowlands, where the so-called "Peaschtl" parade through the streets in elaborate, heavy costumes to drive away the evil spirits of winter. One of the largest Krampus runs in Tyrol takes place every year in Seefeld, where numerous groups from all over the Alps put on gruesome performances. The tradition of Krampus runs is also intensively cultivated in East Tyrol.