Help us celebrate Krampusnacht (Krampus Night, traditionally observed on December 5) a few days later with a Krampus parade at Christkindlmarket Des Moines on Saturday, December 7 starting at 6:30pm
A Krampuslauf (Running of the Krampuses) is a fun run or walk of celebrants dressed as the wicked beast. Dust off your Krampus costume and parade through the festival grounds. Led by Saint Nicholas and your handlers, take a turn through the Christkindlmarket Des Moines venue portraying traditional (and family-friendly) Krampi.
Where the parade takes you after Christkindlmarket Des Moines is up to you and your handlers. But do let the merriment continue!
For those wanting front row seats, the Krampus parade will begin at the festival entrance and parade south along the west side of the venue towards the Christmas tree. It will then continue north along the east side of the venue towards the demonstration vendors, around the north side of the Weihnachtswald. Finally, the parade will make one more pass along the west side of the venue, ending at the Christmas tree for photo opportunities with brave patrons. Click here to view the festival map.
Who is Krampus?
• Hear the proper pronunciation: Krampus is pronounced “krohm-poo-s” as in “con & puss,” NOT “kram-puh-s” as in “campus.
• Video: Top 5 Krampus Facts and Origin
• Video: Krampus parade in Hollabrunn, Austria
• Video: Who Is Krampus? | National Geographic
Don’t have a Krampus costume? Here are a few resources:
• https://www.krampusmasks.com/
• https://www.etsy.com/market/krampus_costume
• http://krampuslosangeles.com/austrian-suits-masks-for-sale/
• Amazon: http://ow.ly/G15B50u3HDn
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