History of Krampus in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 14, 2024

The Krampus is a horned figure from Central and Eastern Alpine folklore. He accompanies Saint Nicholas on the night of December 5th, the eve of the Feast of St. Nicholas. While Saint Nicholas rewards good children with gifts, Krampus punishes misbehaving children with birch rods. This tradition contrasts the benevolent Saint Nicholas with the fearsome Krampus.

1932: Krampus Tradition Prohibited Under Dollfuss Regime

Following the 1932 Austrian election, the Krampus tradition was banned by the Dollfuss regime, aligned with the Fatherland Front and Christian Social Party.

1975: Anthropologist John J. Honigmann's Observations in Irdning

In 1975, anthropologist John J. Honigmann conducted fieldwork in Irdning, Styria, where he likely observed and documented local traditions, potentially including Krampus.

1998: Krampus Debuts in Video Games

The character of Krampus made its debut in the video game world with the arcade game "CarnEvil" in 1998.

2004: Krampus in Print and Television

The Krampus figure appeared in various North American media in 2004, including Monte Beauchamp's vintage postcard collection "Krampus: The Devil of Christmas" and the animated series "The Venture Bros." episode "A Very Venture Christmas."

2012: Krampus in Literature and Television

The year 2012 saw the publication of Gerald Brom's novel "Krampus: The Yule Lord" and the airing of "A Krampus Carol," an episode of the TV series "The League," both featuring the Krampus character.

2013: Krampus in Comics and Television

In 2013, Krampus was featured in the Image Comics series "Krampus" created by Dean Kotz and Brian Joines, as well as in "Minstrel Krampus," an episode of the animated series "American Dad!"

2013: Multiple Injuries Reported During Krampus Runs in East Tyrol

In 2013, several Krampus runs in East Tyrol resulted in numerous injuries, with eight people hospitalized, primarily due to broken bones, and over 60 others receiving outpatient treatment. This highlighted the potential for violence and disorder during these events.

2014: Krampus in Video Games

Krampus was incorporated into the video game "The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth" released in 2014.

2015: Krampus in Film

Universal Pictures released the Christmas comedy horror film "Krampus" in 2015, further popularizing the figure in North America.

2019: Krampus Tradition Revived in Bavaria; Disorderly Conduct Reported in Austria

The year 2019 saw a revival of the Krampus tradition in Bavaria, alongside a resurgence of hand-carved wooden mask making. However, there were also reports of unruly behavior by some masked Krampus figures in certain Austrian towns.