Christmas horror: The legend of Krampus
Hello horror freaks! Since we’re on holiday season I want to tell you about the counterpart of Santa Claus: Krampus. He takes care of the children who has been bad on December 5th, on what is call Krampusnacht (Krampus night).
Who is Krampus?
Krampus is a horned anthropomorphic figure in Alpine folklore who during the Christmas season scares children who has misbehaved. His origin is unclear but some anthropologist and folklorist have postulated that could have pre-Cristian origins. According to the legend Krampus appears on December 5th on what is call Krampusnacht or Krampus night.
To honor and celebrate Krampus Alpine countries do traditional parades annually and the Krampuslauf, or Krampus run, where young men dressed as Krampus and participate. Also he’s feature in holiday greeting cards that are called Krampuskarten.
Krampus in popular culture
Krampus became popular on America over the years thanks to Hollywood. It’s has been featured on video games, tv series, and movies.