Find A Krampus Parade In Europe, really big List! (2026)
I love Halloween, and I love Christmas…the Alpine Krampus tradition is a chance to enjoy a bit of both worlds. I like to call it Hallow’istmas! Do you love the idea of this terrifying Advent tradition too? Are you searching for a Krampus Parade in Europe? Perfect! because I have a list for you!
Picture this: Hundreds of horned demons thunder through Europe’s best alpine villages, bells clanging, chains rattling, breathing fire into the winter night. Welcome to a Krampus parade, Europe’s most terrifying Christmas tradition and an unforgettable travel experience!
I’ll update 2026 Dates as they are announced throughout the year. In the meantime I’ve left the 2025 dates to give you an idea of what 2026 may be.
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I’m intent on visiting as many of these frightening yet festive events as possible so I created this list along with a map of Krampus and Perchten runs to help me plan my itinerary and am sharing my list with you!
You’ll find over 60 Krampus and Perchten events in this article, along with some tips on how to make the most of your Krampus sighting expedition.
Before we dive into the big list, let’s learn a bit about these mythical Alpine creatures.
Table of Contents
Everything you need to know!
Krampus versus Perchten! What’s the difference?
Indeed, they are two completely different creatures! Here’s the difference in a nutshell: Perchten drive away the evil winter spirits, while Krampus punishes naughty children.
Headed to Europe in Winter? Check out this Europe Winter Bucket list and add some bucket list worthy experiences to your trip!
Krampus vs Perchten
Understanding Europe’s Alpine Winter Creatures
KRAMPUS
The Christmas Punisher
PERCHTEN
The Winter Spirit Chasers
Quick Comparison
Perchten: Evil spirits
Perchten: Ancient (1000+ years)
Perchten: Primal & ritualistic
Here’s a bit more about each:
Krampus:
Krampus is a terrifying Alpine Christmas tradition. While Saint Nicholas rewards the good children at Christmastime, Krampus, his dark counterpart, punishes the naughty. Originating in Austria and Bavaria, this hairy horned, cloven-hoofed creature is often depicted with a long, pointed tongue, a basket on his back for carrying away misbehaving children, and a bundle of birch branches (ruten) for swatting bad children.
I don’t know about you, but 7-year-old me would NOT be misbehaving if I even thought there was any chance of meeting up with Krampus! No thank you!
Perchten:
Perchten are much older than the Krampus, having deep roots in pagan pre-Christian folklore. Their purpose is to ward off evil spirits and usher in the longer, warmer days. While Krampus is specific to Saint Nicholas, Perchten are associated with Frau Perchta, a pagan goddess.
Perchten costumes are often more primitive than the ones often worn by the Krampus with animalistic features and horns, and big wooly looking bodies. In driving away winter and evil spirits, they mean to ensure fertility and a good harvest in the coming year.
Perchten come in two forms: Schiachperchten (ugly Perchten): frightening, monstrous figures similar to Krampus and Schönperchten (beautiful Perchten): graceful, ornamental characters meant to bring luck.
To be honest I kind of prefer the Perchten over the Krampus. I find them less Halloween-like and more primal in nature. I appreciate the intimate look into the deep dark ancient traditions of this region.
When do Krampus and Perchten appear?
Krampus:
In this part of Europe, St. Nicholas arrives on the evening of December 5th and the morning of December 6th. Therefore, this is Krampus’s time to shine!
Perchten
The Perchten make their appearance during Rauhnächte (the “rough nights” around winter solstice). Perchtenläufe events are often later in December and around the solstice/new-year period.
When do Krampus parades and Perchten Events take place?
Peak season for the parades, known as Krampusläufe (Krampus runs) and Perchtenläufe (Perchten runs) usually take place anywhere from late-November until mid-December, but I’ve seen them take place after the new year even.
Since December 5th (Krampusnacht / Krampus Nacht / Krampus Night) and 6th (Saint Nicholas Day) is a popular date for events. Traditionally the pagan Perchten were popular sightings during the winter solstice. Today there are so many of these events, both great and small, that they really are spread out over a month or more during the Christmas / Advent season. This is true for both Krampus and Perchten events.
Note on dates in this article:
Always double check dates. I’ve done my best to take dates directly from the official event website but things can and do change. Do confirm dates on the town tourism site before you travel. Winter weather can also affect events. I was super sad to arrive at the Krampus Run in Regensburg a few years back just to find out it had been canceled due to inclement weather.
What to expect at one of these events
The Krampuslaufen (Krampus runs) and the Perchtenlaufen (Perchten runs) are actually processions or parades that feature these horned, bell-clad figures. Terrifying mythical horned beasts march their way through the streets of town with clanging cowbells, fire, beating drums, rattling chains, and the cracking of whips. Don’t be surprised if you get switched by one of those punishing Krampus!
It’s not all bad though. Often St. Nicholas makes an appearance, brining sweets for the children.
These events attract throngs of excited crowds each year. In larger towns you’ll find massive events and even more massive crowds. Small towns have much smaller events but offer a more intimate and authentic experience.
Where to find a Krampus or Perchten Event in Europe: 2026 Guide
The strongest concentrations are in Alpine Austria, Bavaria (southern Germany), and South Tyrol (northern Italy).
In this article you’ll find an extensive list of cities and towns grouped by country so that you can easily locate a Krampus or Perchten run near you!
Austria or Germany? Which is a better destination for you? Use this Austria vs Germany article to help find the answer!
Here’s where you can find a Krampus event in Europe!
Is this an exhaustive list? NO
It seems as if every little town, especially in Alpine Austria, has an event! There are groups that go around performing from town to town. My suggestion is to find the local tourism site for the area and ask for a list of groups, then make your way to their website or Facebook page for their schedule.
Austria Krampus Events
It’s only fitting that we start with Austria, the epicenter of the Krampus tradition! Head for the small villages of the Gstein Valley and Tyrol in the Austrian Alps, the heart of Krampus and Perchten land!
Altenmark im PongauKrampus Run (Krampuslauf)
The Krampus run is back again after a hiatus of several years.
when: December 5, 2026
website: Altenmarkt.at
Anif Krampusse Event
You may need a ticket for this event. Check their website page for further details.
when: December 5 and 6, 2025
website: Facebook
Axams, Axamer Tuifllauf
when: December 5, 2025
website: Innsbrucktermine.at
Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein
Around 100 Krampuspassen move around between these towns going from house to house. For an intimate experience plan to be here on Krampus night!
when: Every year on the 5th and 6th of December
website: Contact the official tourism site for one of these towns to get exact dates.
Bad Goisern Krampuslauf
Conveniently, this event takes place the day before the single day Christmas market in Hallstatt. It’s on my “to-do” list! They have a children’s Krampus run and St. Nicholas visit earlier in the evening and the Salzkammergut Krampus run afterwards.
when: December 7, 2026 (yearly)
website: Salzkammergut-Krampuslauf
Bad Ischl, Austria
At this Child friendly Krampus event St. Nicholas arrives and brings with him well-behaved Krampuss.
when: December. 5, 2026 (yearly)
website: im-salzkammergut.at
Biberwier Austria Krampuslauf
“Schluchtetuifl Biberwier” Krampus procession. After the parade, the fun continues with a party and DJ! St. Nicholas will also visit Biberwier that evening, bringing small gifts for the children.
when: December 6, 2025
website: Zugspitzarena.com
Bregenz Austria
Krampus and Perchten group performance.
when: several dates in December 2026
website: Breagazer-bodaseetuefl or Facebook
Graz Krampus Night
At the Christmas market on Glockenspielplatz square.
when: November 8, 2026
website: Graztourismus
Grossarl, Austria Krampuskränzchen” in Großarl
when: December 5, 2026 (check the website for additional dates)
website: Grossarltal
Hallstatt Austria Krampus Run
Colourful fire show, hot drinks, St. Nicholas, and lots of devilish masks, and St. Nicholas. Check dates for the children’s Krampus run on Hallstatt’s Market Square.
when: December 5, 2026 (yearly)
website: im-salzkammergut or Facebook
Hellbrunn, Salzburg Austria
Event dates for the parade of the Grossmaier Krampusse plus the Krampuswelt (Krampus World) permanent exhibition during the Advent Market.
when: check the website for 2026 dates
website: Hellbrunneradventzauber
Huttschlagg Austria Krampus-run
First, the holy Nicholas comes with gifts for the children. Afterwards, there is a joint Krampus run with the Hüttschlager Krampuses and children’s Krampuses.
when: check the website for 2026 dates
website: Grossarltal.info/de
Igls Krampus Run
Krampus run with the Obertuifl in the lead
when: Check the website for 2026 dates
website: Tyrol.com
Innsbruck Austria
Krampus and Perchten runs at the Christmas markets in Innsbruck
when: November 30 – December 7, 2025
website: Tyrol.com
Hungerburg Krampus Run, Innsbruck Austria
St. Nicholas takes the funicular up to the Hungerburg and gives Santa sacks to the children there. Followed by a “Krampus” run.
when: 2026 dates (website still says more information coming soon)
website: Christkindlmarkt.cc
Itter Perchten Parade
I saw a video of this very cool event and it shot straight up onto the top of my “to do” list! Primal creatures (percten) “dance” their way through the village to the beat of drums, the entire scene surrounded by snowy mountains! How cool is that??!! For the most current information see the website for events in Itter. Can’t find the listing? send them a message! I did and they were very helpful!)
when: December 1st – 6th 2026
website: Kitzbueheler-alpen.com
Kitzbühel District
There are literally dozens of events in the Itter area! You can find a list of the different performance groups on the Kitzbühel District website. Click on each individual group page for their upcoming events. You could spend the better part of a week here attending Krampus events!
when: various dates in 2026
website: Kitzbueheler-alpen.com
Klagenfurt Krampus Parade (Krampusumzug
Around 1,000 Krampuses and Perchten from the Alpine-Adriatic region
when: November 21, 2026
website: Woerthersee.com
Kufstein Krampus Event
You won’t be disappointed with a visit to this BEAUTIFUL area of Austria!
when: In September 2026 Cerritus Pass, the local Krampus group, hung up the costumes. Check the events page for the city of Kufstein to see if they’ve scheduled anyone for 2026.
website: Kufstein.at
Kundl Austria Perchten run and St Nicholas procession (Nikolauseinzug und Perchtenlauf)
when: December 5, 2026 (yearly)
website: Kundl.gv.at
Lermoos Austria Krampus Procession, The Lermoos Tuifl (Krampus) procession
Over 20 groups from near and far will ensure an unforgettable evening!
when: 2026 dates soon to be announced
website: Zugspitzarena
Lienz Austria Krampus Days (Lienzer Krampustage)
Fierce and traditional Perchten and Krampusse!
when: December 3rd, 5th and 6th 2026 (confirm because it’s not clear what year)
website: Lienz.gv.at
Mariazell Perchten Events and Processions
Regional Perchten Groups perform.
when: November 22 – 23, 2025 (check back for 2026 dates)
website: mariazell.at (check the search page for past events there seem to be a lot in the area!)
Neumarkt, Austria (Neumarkter Krampusse)
Small Krampus group (in 2025 they also had events from mid-November to mid-December in Elixhausen, Seekirchen, Henndorf, Wagrain, Köstendorf, Strasswalchen, Hausbesuchen, and Eugendorf! check their website for 2026 events!)
when: December 5, 2025
website: Facebook.com/neumarkterkrampusse1980
Poertschach am Worther-seeAustria (Krampusumzug in Pörtschach)
Large Pörtschach Krampus procession right at the Advent promenade/Quiet Advent with Wörthersee, 20 Krampus groups!
when: November 20, 2026
website: Woerthersee.com/advent
Rattenberg Austria: Perchten Run (Perchtenlauf)
SEIDÄ PASS is the local “Perchten group” here to drive away the evil winter spirits.
when: December 5th and 6th, 2026 (yearly, regardless of the day of the week)
website: Seidaepass
Rauris Austria, Rauriser Toifi night
The Rauriser Toifi “devils” or Krampus-like creatures are out and about, going from house to house and driving away evil from the Rauris Valley in SalzburgerLand.
when: December 5th, 6th, 7th, 2026
website: Raurisertal.at
Salzburg, Austria
Krampus runs take place between late November and early December. The main traditional parade, the Krampuslauf, usually on December 5th (Krampus Night in Europe) through the Old Town (Domplatz/Residenzplatz) as part of the Christmas Markets. The Gnigler Krampuslauf in Salzburg boasts nearly 40 different Krampus clubs (850 total Krampus) and is said to last nearly 3 hours!
when: 2026 dates:
- Krampus Run, December 5th, expected around 1 p.m. at Cathedral Square
- St. Nicholas and Children’s Krampus: December 6th, at 3:30 p.m.
- Perchten Run: December 21st, 1st of the Twelve Days of Christmas
website: Christkindlmarkt.co.at
Schladming KRAMPUSLAUF
when: November 22, 2025 (check back for 2026 dates!)
website: Krampuslauf-schladming.at/
Seefeld Krampus Show
One of the largest Krampus events in Tyrol with 30 groups from the Alpine region, more traditional in character, after-show party.
when: December 5, 2026
website: Seefeld.com
Sellrain Tuifl Krampus Run
Krampus run with performances by various Tuifl groups from the region, a St Nicholas procession, and refreshments in the “Tuifl tent.”
when: November 29, 2025
website: Facebook.com
Sölden Krampus Parade
when: November 15, 2025
website: Soelden.com
Spittal an der Drau Perchten Run
By Perchtengruppe Lords of Fire-Spittal
when: November 28, 2026
website: Facebook.com
St. Gilgen TraditionalKrampus Run”Krampustag” by Zottl-Pass St. on Wolfgangsee
when: November 28, 2026
website: Wolfgangsee.salzkammergut.at
St Johann im Pongau Austria krampus
One of the largest processions in Europe with over one thousand Kampuss and Perchten is the Krampus Run in St. Johann im Pongau. Check the events calendar.
when: December 5, 2025
website: Josalzburg.com
Traun Krampus and Perchten Run
By the Group the Traun Devils, with over 200 Krampus and Perchten figures from 15 different groups.
when: December 20, 2025
website: Facebook.com
Vienna Austria Krampus and Perchten events
Here are some of the more popular events in Vienna
1: Perchtenparade at Vienna Prater Amusement park
Expect to see more than 200 impressively crafted masks from different Austrian regions.
when: Sunday, 30th November 2025
website: Vienna-unwrapped.com
2: Kurpark, Baden bei Wien Perchtenlauf
Biedermeier is a quiet spa town in the Vienna Woods, the Perchenrun begins in Kurpark.
when: December 7, 2025
website: Adventimpark.at
Villach Krampus Run (Krampuslauf)
Large event with 55 Krampus groups, over 1000 Krampuses.
when: November 28, 2025
website: Villacheradvent
Wels Perchten Run (Perchtenlauf)
Hoasted by Schleißheimer Perchten
when: December 8 2026 (check their Facebook page for other area Perchten Events)
website: Facebook.com
Zell am See / Kaprun Austria Krampus Run
when: December 5, 2025
website: Zellamsee-kaprun
Germany Krampus Parade Events
The Krampus tradition is alive and well in southern Germany, particularly in the Bavarian region.
Bad Tolz Krampus Run
when: December 13, 2025
website: Bad-Toelz
Kirschseeon Perchtenlauf
when: Kirschseeon’s Krampus group has around 13 dates between late-November and early January
website: Perchten-Kirchseeon
Munich Krampus Run
The city of Munich seems to be THE destination for those looking to get a look at a Krampus in Germany. It’s one of the most attended in Europe.
when: December 13, 2026
website: Christkindlmarkt-Muenchen
Pullman City Amusement Park Rauhnachtsbrauch Parade with Perchten, Eging am See
Get a gander at Krampsus at this Western themed park in Germany!
when: December 26, 2026
website: Pullmancity
Regensburg
I was headed to this Krampus event just to find out when I arrived that it had been canceled. DARN! You can’t hardly blame them as it has been drizzling and icing most of the day but I were was disappointed!
I believe the event moves around, and you may even catch the Kampusse at Thurn und Taxis market, one of my favorite Christmas markets in Germany!
when: check the official website for upcoming dates
website: Tourismus Regensburg
Rosenheim Perchtenlauf
when: December 9 and 13, 2025
website: Facebook.com
Sonthofen Klausentreiben Perchten Run
when: November 28, 2026
website: Klausenverein-sonthofen or on Facebook.com
Tittmoning Perchtenlauf
Annual parade for over two decades, and of course a visit from St. Nicholas.
when: December 3, 2026
website: chiemsee-chiemgau.info
The Upper Palatinate Castle Devils “Oberpfälzer Schlossteufeln eV”
This small Krampus group travels around to different towns and markets.
when: Various locations between late-November and early January: Rauhnacht Beilngries, Weihnachtsmarkt Neumarkt i.d.Opf., Weihnachtsmarkt Deuerling, Weihnachtsmarkt Amberg, Weihnachtsmarkt Mühlhausen, Weihnachtsmarkt Roding, Weihnachtsmarkt Altdorf bei Nürnberg, Weihnachtsmarkt Schwandorf, Weihnachtsmarkt Kümmersbruck, Weiden Rauhnachtslauf,
website: Oberpfalz-Schlossteufeln
Italy Krampus Events
Head for the German-speaking alpine regions of South Tyrol (Südtirol) or the Dolomites, a mountain range in the northern part of the country!
Bozen / Bolzano Italy Krampus Parade
when: back for 2026 dates!
website: Kultur.bz.it
Brixen/Bressanone Krampus Run
when: December 5, 2025
website: Brixen.org
Castelrotto / Kastelruth
52 Krampus groups with around 1,000 “Tuifl” from South Tyrol, Trentino, Austria, and Switzerland will turn the village into a thrilling inferno of bells, masks, and smoke.
when: December 13, 2025
website: Seiseralm.it
Lana Italy
when: November 22, 2025
website: Hoellenschluchtkrampus or on Facebook
Ortisei Italy Krampus Festival
Have a website and current information on this one? Let me know!
San Vigilio di Marebbe – Krampus Parade
when: December 12, 2025
website: Dolomiti.it
Sand in Taufers
when: December 5, 2026
website: South-tirol.com
Sesto / Sexten – Krampus Parade
The largest Krampus gathering in South Tyrol. This year, too, some 600 scary Krampus and Percht will be expected to enliven the evening. The party will continue with the best DJs in the region!
when: December 14, 2025
website: Sesto.it
Sterzing, Italy Krampus Day
The devils (‘Tuifl’) keep order with their whips and leave traces of their passage by blackening some faces.
when: December 5, 2026 (yearly)
website: Dolomiti.it
Toblach / Dobbiaco Italy Krampus Run
The oldest Krampus run in South Tyrol takes place in Dobbiaco. It’s a spectacle with more than 600 Krampusse coming from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
when: December 7, 2025
website: Suedtirol.info
Slovenia Krampus Events
Yes, you’ll find Krampusi in Slovenia, particularly in the regions bordering Austria, where they are more commonly known as Parkeljni
Kranj Parkeljni Event (Fire spectacle in Podkoren)
Over 500 “parkeljni” from three countries!
when: November 27, 2026
website: Kranjska-gora
Goričane near Medvode Krampus Night, Ljubljana
Krampus from all over Europe gather in Goričane near Medvode. More than 700 of these terrifying creatures will be conjuring up a genuine hellish atmosphere this year.
when: November 21 and 22, 2025
website: Visit Ljubljana or on Facebook
More Slovenia dates
Check out this group on Facebook for additional events in Slovenia!
Map of popular Krampus Events in Europe
Are you “looking for a Krampus parade near me?”
Want to see more than one? Use this handy map to locate Krampus and Perchten events around Europe! (links to an interactive Google map)
Practical Tips for attending a Krampus Parade in 2026
It may hurt.
Seriously, on some occasions you may be whipped by a Krampus! If you prefer to skip the beating, look for a spot towards the back of the crowd.
Wear dark clothing.
I saw one of the event pages recommend that you wear dark clothing as sometimes the makeup worn by the Krampus and Perchten may wear off on your clothing if they move in on you!
Arrive early for a good spot.
These events are very popular and can be very crowded. If you’re looking for a front row seat you’ll want to get there early.
Dress warm.
You may be outside for hours and it’s winter in Central Europe so it’s bound to be cold, especially at night when many of these events take place.
Parking:
With so many extra people arriving for the event, expect to run into parking issues. Using public transportation is a good way to avoid looking for parking, or look for park-and-ride options where you can park on the perimeter of town and take a shuttle into town.
The best time to go
Time your travel around the first two weekends in December for the biggest concentration of runs.
Tickets
You MIGHT need a ticket so check the official website. Can’t find one? Look for the official tourism website or the official city website, or even the official Christmas market website.
Book accommodation early.
This is especially important because these events correspond with the Christmas Market season in Europe, which brings in tourists from around the globe!
Family-friendly options:
some towns stage tame performances or separate family shows; if traveling with young children, look for events explicitly labeled “family” on tourism pages.
Krampus Festival Safety:
While exhilarating, these events can be rowdy. It’s best to stay behind barriers, especially if you’re with children. Some Krampus figures might playfully swat onlookers with their birch branches, but serious harm is rare. If you’re sensitive to loud noises or large crowds, consider this beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Krampus and Perchten Events in Europe
Are Krampus events appropriate for children?
That depends on the individual child. Some are going to eat this stuff up, while others may be traumatized for life! My best advice is to show your child pics and videos ahead of time and ask if they are interested.
What countries have Krampus Events? Where to see a Krampus Run?
While you may find the rare event around Europe, Krampus and Perchten events are most popular in the alpine regions of Germany and Austria.
What is the Krampus Parade called?
In German speaking countries where these events are so popular they are known as a Krampus Run or Krampuslauf.
Do you need tickets?
You might! Check the official website to determine if you need a ticket and if so how to obtain one. Most of these events do not require a ticket.
How much does it cost to attend?
Most Krampus and Perchten events are free.
What’s the best time to arrive?
I’d show up an hour early if you want to be in the middle of the “action” and for larger events you may need to show up even earlier!
Want to hear more about my travels around Europe? You may be interested in my Europe page! and don’t forget to check out my “Travel Resources” page for more great resources for booking your trip from hotels to tours to travel insurance!
