04. 12. 09. - 16:00

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04. 12. 09. - 16:00

Krampus and Nikolaus to visit Austria this weekend

By Lisa Chapman

Don’t be surprised if you see a terrifying two-metre devil beating young women and a Santa Claus-like figure doling out presents in Austria this weekend – it’s just the traditional "Nikolaus" celebration.

In Austria, 5 and 6 December are the Krampus and St Nicholas, or Nikolaus in German, feast days.

Krampus is a mythical devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas in various regions of the world during the Christmas season. He is often portrayed as a terrifying devil carrying a huge stick or a whip with which to beat bad children.

In Alpine regions, Krampus is represented by a demon-like creature accompanying Saint Nicholas. He gives gifts to good children, while Krampus gives warnings and punishments to bad children.

Traditionally, young men dress up as Krampus during the first two weeks of December, particularly on the evening of 5 December, and roam the streets frightening children and women with rusty chains and bells.

In some rural areas, the tradition also includes Krampus beating people with sticks, especially girls and young women.

Modern Krampus costumes consist of Larve (wooden masks), sheep's skin, and horns. Masks are handcrafted with great skill, and many younger adults in rural communities compete in Krampus events.

Krampus is also often a feature of traditional "Perchten" processions. The word "Perchten" originally referred to female masks worn by the entourage of "Frau Perchta," an ancient goddess, during processions during the last week of December and the first week of January.

Perchten are associated with mid-winter and the embodiment of fate and the souls of the dead. The name originates from the old high German word "peraht" (brilliant).

In the Pongau region of Austria, large processions of Schönperchten ("beautiful Perchten") and Schiachperchten ("ugly Perchten") are held every winter.

The feast of St. Nicholas on 6 December marks the anniversary of the saint’s death in the year 346 AD. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving and became a model for Santa Claus.

Although Austrians wait until Christmas to exchange gifts, the Nikolaus tradition means their children find something from St. Nicholas – sweets, fruit or other presents, on the morning of 6 December.

Adults dressed as St. Nicholas and Krampus have traditionally visited primary schools on or around 5-6 December, but some schools have banned them amid claims the Krampus costumes leave some kids terrified.

Austrian Times

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