Krampus in Witch City

On the longest night of the year, the start of Yule, I enjoyed a unique tour of historic downtown Salem, Massachusetts. My guide had horns upon his head and carried a menacing bundle of sticks. Yes, I followed behind none other than Krampus, the devilish December visitor of Germanic folklore known for terrorizing naughty children.

A figure loomed in a window near the start of the tour

While Santa Claus is the only Christmastime visitor in the popular culture of the United States, there are actually a variety of characters to be found in different European countries. One of these is Krampus. A tradition found in areas of Central Europe, Krampus is portrayed as a devil-like creature, with fur, horns, and a long tongue. He carries a ruten bundle to dole out beatings, as well as a sack for taking away those who are especially naughty. Depending on the place, there are various ways in which Krampus is incorporated into Christmastime practices. For example, in Krampus Runs (Krampuslauf), large numbers of people dress as this Yuletide monster and parade through the streets and interact with onlookers. Krampus is gaining some popularity in the US in recent times, and I was lucky enough to find him giving a tour in Salem.

Krampus sharing some ghostly stories

Though Salem is known as Witch City, this particular tour focuses on the ancient traditions of the winter solstice season. As we strolled through the area, Krampus regaled us with tales. For example, we learned of the Wild Hunt (where travelers must be wary of a spectral hunting group) and Frau Perchta (a witch who inspects the household at night). Of course, being in Salem, early New England and the Salem Witch Trials were also touched upon. Though Krampus is traditionally known for doling out punishment, this Krampus provided his guests with a number of gifts and treats.

One of the stops on the tour

Krampus by the Witch House

The man behind the Krampus mask, Kenneth, runs the tour company Sinister Stories of Salem. This tour is offered in December and is intended for adults. Interesting, humorous, and somber at times, the Krampus tour was a wonderful way to celebrate the winter solstice.