A Fiery Bavarian Tradition Lights Up The Night. Vivid Scenes From The Annually Krampus Run In Bad Tölz, Bavaria

On December 9, 2023, menacing participants clad in elaborate Krampus costumes parade through the town square. These terrifying figures, complete with large twisted horns, snarling masks, and dark fur, hold blazing torches that illuminate their fearsome appearances. Against the backdrop of the town's festive holiday lights and traditional Alpine architecture, the fiery spectacle creates a captivating contrast. Onlookers, bundled in warm winter attire, gather to watch the event, adding to the vibrant and festive atmosphere. The Krampus Run is a centuries-old Bavarian tradition that brings the folklore of Krampus to life, blending eerie theatrics with the spirit of the holiday season. The Krampus is a horned anthropomorphic figure deeply rooted in the folklore of Central and Eastern Alpine regions. Traditionally, he is said to accompany Saint Nicholas during his visits to children on the night of December 5, known as Krampusnacht, just before the Feast of St. Nicholas on December 6. In this folklore, Saint Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with small gifts, while the Krampus punishes those who have been naughty, often using birch rods to scare them into better behavior. Today, the Krampus is prominently featured in traditional parades, such as the Krampuslauf, or 'Krampus run,' where young men dressed as Krampus attempt to frighten onlookers with their mischievous antics, further cementing his place in local customs and celebrations. (Photo by Michael Nguyen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)