The Midnight Pumpkin Blog

Krampus costuming and cosplay has been popping up all over this holiday season! Even Krampus parades and gatherings have been getting more popular judging by how many pics keep showing up on my social media feed featuring festive horned horrors getting into the Yuletide spirit.

When most people think of the holidays, they imagine cheerful festivities, Santa Claus, and the warmth of family gatherings. But in Alpine folklore, there’s a darker figure who roams alongside St. Nicholas during the winter holidays: the fearsome Krampus.

This horned, devil-like creature punishes misbehaving children, providing a sharp contrast to the gift-giving Santa. Whether you’re intrigued by his spooky history or looking to create a standout costume for a holiday event, Krampus is the perfect character to explore.

The Origins of Krampus

Krampus hails from the Alpine regions of Europe, including Austria, Germany, and Hungary. His name is derived from the German word krampen, meaning “claw,” and his terrifying appearance matches this name.

Depicted with large, curved horns, claws, shaggy black or brown fur, and a long, lolling tongue, Krampus is a creature that inspires both fear and fascination.

In Alpine tradition, Krampus accompanies St. Nicholas on December 5th, a night known as Krampusnacht or Krampus Night. While St. Nicholas rewards the good children with gifts, Krampus takes care of the naughty ones, either by scaring them, whipping them with birch branches, or in the most dramatic tales, carrying them away in a sack. This dual role creates a balance between reward and punishment during the holiday season.

Krampus likely has roots in pre-Christian pagan traditions. Historians suggest he may have originally been connected to wild spirits and fertility rituals of the winter solstice. Over time, as Christianity spread, Krampus’s image was redefined to align with more Christian ideals, with his chains symbolizing the “binding” of pagan spirits.

Today, Krampus is enjoying a revival, thanks to his unique mix of fright and festivity. Events like the Krampuslauf, or Krampus Run, feature costumed participants parading through snowy streets, celebrating his legacy in a modern way.

How to Create a Krampus Costume

A Krampus cosplay is a fun way to embrace the darker side of the holiday season. With his distinctive look and ominous presence, he makes for a costume that’s as creative as it is memorable. Here’s how you can create your own version of Krampus.

The Basic Elements of a Krampus Costume:

• Large curved horns
• Claws
• Furry
• Chains
• Sharp teeth or fangs
• Big tongue hanging out

Traditional Krampus Costume

For a traditional Krampus costume, start with his iconic features. A pair of large, curved horns is a must-have. These can be purchased from costume shops or crafted using lightweight materials like foam or plastic.

His shaggy appearance can be recreated with a full-body faux fur suit in dark colors like black or brown, which adds to his beastly aura. Or you can opt for fur pants.

Krampus is often depicted carrying chains, which can be draped around your shoulders or rattled for dramatic effect. Jingle bells attached to the chains add an eerie holiday touch.

For the face, a demonic mask with sharp teeth and a long tongue is the perfect choice. You can also use makeup to create exaggerated, menacing features and colored contacts in red or other demonic looking colors.

Finish the look with a bundle of birch branches and a sack to complete Krampus’s punishing persona.

Glamorous Krampus Costume

If you’re looking for a modern twist, consider a glamorous Krampus cosplay. You can put your own spin on the traditional elements, just make sure you add your horns!

A luxurious velvet cloak in deep red or black trimmed with fur can replace the fur suit. Long black nails, dramatic makeup and smokey eyes complete the look.

For the Bowsette Krampus mash-up below, I added black furry boots and black rhinestone encrusted claws. You can get the claws for around $12 on Amazon: Krampus Claws.

Costumes aren’t limited to individuals—Krampus works well for couples or group themes, too. For instance, you and a partner can dress as Krampus and St. Nicholas, embodying the festive duality of reward and punishment.

Alternatively, a group of friends could each design their own interpretation of Krampus, ranging from humorous to terrifying, creating an entire “Krampuslauf” wherever you go.

Adding Festive Flair to Your Costume

To tie Krampus’s dark look into the holiday theme, add a touch of festivity to your costume. You can attach bells, small ornaments or LED lights to your horns or fur for a glowing, supernatural effect.

Incorporating traditional holiday colors like red and green into your outfit can also bring a unique twist to the character, making Krampus feel at home in any holiday setting.

Where to Find a Krampus Festival or Event

Krampus festivals have been gaining popularity in the United States, bringing a unique blend of spooky holiday traditions and fun celebrations inspired by Alpine folklore.

These events often feature parades, costume contests, and themed gatherings that highlight the mischievous character of Krampus. If you are looking for a spooky spin on Christmas festivities, it may be worth traveling for one of these unique gatherings.

Some notable Krampus festivals:

Krampuslauf in New Orleans, LA:

Organized by the Krewe of Krampus, this parade takes place in the Bywater neighborhood. It features elaborate costumes, festive music, and a unique New Orleans twist on the traditional Krampus celebrations. Accessibility features, such as audio narration and sensory-friendly zones, ensure the event is inclusive​

Krampusnacht in Bremerton, WA

Held annually in downtown Bremerton, this event showcases costumed performers, vendor booths, and opportunities for community participation. The celebration is deeply rooted in the Bavarian tradition of Krampusnacht and offers a chance for attendees to immerse themselves in the festive and eerie atmosphere​

Photos with Krampus, Cocoa, FL

The Annual Photos with Krampus at The Sea Witch of Cocoa Village allows families and pets to pose with Krampus.

Krampus Pageant, San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Krampus, working with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, gathers every winter to choose who is going to be this year’s Krampus.  The event raises money for charities with services targeting LGBTQ+ youth.

Try searching your area for Krampus events, you might be surprised they’ve been going on for a while!

Why Krampus Is Gaining Popularity

Krampus’s resurgence in pop culture is no surprise. He’s the perfect antidote to the sugary-sweetness of modern holiday celebrations, offering a way to celebrate the season with a touch of edge. Movies, festivals, and themed parties have introduced Krampus to new audiences, making him a beloved figure for those who enjoy the macabre.

Celebrating Krampus isn’t just about fright—it’s also about honoring the rich history and traditions of Alpine folklore. By donning a Krampus costume, you’re not just participating in a fun holiday event; you’re keeping a centuries-old legend alive.

This holiday season, take a break from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary by bringing Krampus to life. Whether you go for traditional, glamorous, or completely DIY, a Krampus costume is guaranteed to leave an unforgettable impression. So grab your horns, chains, and birch branches, and let the festivities begin!