Traditional Krampus Run by Zottl-Pass St. Gilgen

Traditional Krampus run by Zottl-Pass at the Seepark in St. Gilgen.

“Krampus" is the untamed, shaggy spirit that accompanies St. Nicholas. Their traditional costumes and masks are elaborately handcrafted. “Perchten" are wild pagan spirits widespread throughout the Austrian and Bavarian region. They carry bells and other loud instruments to dispel the winter. Nowadays the originally different Krampus and Perchten customs have merged into one in many regions.