Krampus Parade in Merano
Spectators gather along streets and behind security barriers to watch traditional processions of Krampus, demonic figures from alpine folklore who accompany Saint Nicholas. Visitors see performers dressed in animal horns, bulky furs, and terrifying hand-carved wooden masks while listening to the loud clatter of heavy cowbells and dragging chains. Throughout the spectacle, the menacing figures brandish birch switches and tease the crowd before Saint Nicholas steps in to reward well-behaved children.
What to Expect
Traditional Alpine devil processions escorting Saint Nicholas through South Tyrol towns.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
IDM Südtirol
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Folklore and tradition enthusiasts
Vibe
Eerie and traditional
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Accessibility: If you're with someone with a disability, stay out of the front rows.
- Pets: Leave dogs at home.
Tips & Advice
- If you're with children, pregnant people or anyone sensitive, stay back from the front rows, because the noise is loud and the atmosphere is intense.
- Leave your dog at home, and don't touch the Krampus, even when they come up to the crowd and tease people with their switches.
- Follow police directions along the route and watch from behind the barriers set up for spectators at the bigger parades.
- Dress warmly for standing outdoors in the Alpine cold during Advent while the procession goes by.
Special Events & Promotions
- The Krampus parade in nearby Lana, in the Merano area, is on December 5.
- The San Nicolò parade in Parcines, also in the Merano area, is on December 5.
- The oldest Krampus procession in South Tyrol, with a party, is in Dobbiaco on December 7.
- Sesto holds its 20th Krampus parade on December 12.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Krampus parade suitable for young children?
It can be intense. The noise is loud and the atmosphere is meant to give you chills. If you're with children, pregnant people, people with disabilities or anyone sensitive, stay out of the front rows.
What will we see at the parade?
The Krampus walk the streets with Saint Nicholas, praising good children and punishing naughty ones. They wear animal horns, foul-smelling furs and heavy cowbells, and they carry birch switches. At the bigger parades, hundreds of devils go past while spectators watch from behind barriers.
Does Saint Nicholas hand out gifts?
Sometimes. At some parades, the devils go with Saint Nicholas while he hands out gifts. Others are a procession of Krampus that you watch from behind barriers.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Leave your dog at home.
Can I touch the Krampus or get close to them?
Don't touch the Krampus. Follow what the police tell you along the route, and stay behind the barriers where they're set up.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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