Castelrotto (Kastelruth) is located in South Tirol, on the Dolomite Mountains in North Italy. Its residences celebrate every year a colorful noisy unique winter event named Krampuslauf – “The Krampus Run”.
The event that starts on the late afternoon hours attracts thousands of people, locals mainly from the nearby cities and lot of tourists. Ushers and policemen direct hundreds of drivers to parking lots out of the town, about two kilometers from the event location. Please notice that going by foot from the parking lot to the center of the town may take 15-20 minutes.
Due to the numerous visitors during the festival day and the high demand for accommodations in the area, it is recommended to check hotel rates and book rooms well in advance.
The event preserves an old Austrian tradition legacy tells that every winter, on Christmas, Saint Nicolas (known as Santa Claus) brings presents to good children while “Krampus” the mountains demon accompanied him in order to punish and scare bad children.
The legend is the main motive of Krampus Run. The marchers that come from neighbor countries disguised as demons and devils. They wear frightening costumes of beasts with rays and glow eyes. Part of them spit fire, smoke or make earsplitting noise.
Music shows played on a stage that was built on the town center and the parade marchs around it. Burners that are placed above the stage raise from time to time fire steams of tens meter height.
In spite of the fact that Krampuslauf parades are held on various places in Europe, the one in Castelrotto is the greatest in size and quality, thus it attracts thousands of people.
Detail information, lineup, parking and more can be found on the link under “Event related information” below.
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