Well received by both the tourists and in the eyes of the public, the new Krampus event this holiday season in Leavenworth, Washington, has gone off without a hitch. Even with its popularity, the Krampus has sparked debate among students at Cascade High School.
The Krampus (in German: kʁampʊs]) is a horned anthropomorphic figure who, in the Central and Eastern Alpine folkloric tradition, is said to accompany Saint Nicholas on visits to children during the night of 5th of December (Krampusnacht or Krampus Night), immediately before the Feast of St. Nicholas on December 6th .
In this tradition, Saint Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with small gifts, while Krampus punishes badly behaved ones with birch rods. The Krampus as portrayed is adorned with two great horns, goat-like fur and a stature that can be compared to the Yeti.
The group putting together this 2024 Krampus show/meet and greet winter season was a group known as Seattle Krampus, a band of Krampus enthusiasts who dress the part, wearing highly realistic costumes and tour the towns/cities around Washington. While they were well received at first, the Krampuses started an issue in the busy downtown area of Leavenworth.
“I think they were cool, but they caused a big scene which caused a huge traffic jam as everyone wanted a photo with them,” said Chris Cacho (12). The Krampuses, with their flaming poles and great big costumes, here to scare children on Krampusnacht, led people to form lines trying to get pictures, blocking off the whole middle section of town, as well as taking away from one of Leavenworth's main selling points, the Bavarian themed restaurants and shops.
Even through the scrutiny however, the Krampuses had overwhelming positive feedback from students, “
The display of one of the many mythological creatures from other parts of the world adds cultural diversity that Leavenworth has lacked in the past,” said Cruz Martinez (12).
“They are really cool and super scary and add something that Leavenworth never knew they needed,” said Caden Peterson (12).
“I think they are super cool, and we should embrace the culture a little more than we have in the past,” said Cordelia Feeland (11).
“The Krampus is a great idea to bring a different type of Christmas spirit to the town,” said Jonas Johnson (12).
The Krampuses have brought joy, cultural diversity and new experiences to tourists and many locals and hopefully will remain a staple at the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting for years to come.
Commentaires