Saturday night’s cold air was filled with warm embraces in Jim Thorpe.. It is the Christmas season yet again.. Beautiful lights.. packed bars and restaurants.. families parading the street to take in the sights and sounds of winter in the the town..
Another type of fare paraded the streets, however..
An event hosted by The High Priestess Metaphysical Boutique and Conjured Soap Boutique almost could not have happened. The planned Mauch Chunk Krampushnacht was debated by residents and businesses and some even asked if it was proper for a town with children and families to employ the use of the famed horn goat like anti-Claus.
Thankfully the event went on as planned…
And lots–really lots–of people thoroughly enjoyed themselves! Kids included–kids have known about Krampus for years. Western society has been re-introduced to something that people from Europe knew about for generations. Christmas is a season of gifts for the good. For those who have long heralded the famed Krampus, it’s also a season of goat horns, chains to warn, and whips to those on Santa’s naughty list.
There were various styled Krampi.. There were whips and threats to take away bad children. A few attendees even did cosplay style as they roamed with the raging Krampi.
All in good fun, of course. Nothing like the REAL Krampus would do.
There are indications that the event was a success–the Facebook page is filled with commentary about how many people really enjoyed it.There is even a video of the invasion of Krampuses into the new Japanese restaurant MYST..
This little website feels the tradition was amazing and should continue. There is an avid supply of interest in this old tradition. And why not do it again..
After all, Krampus is as real as Santa.
And it’s the scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmases long long ago that we long to celebrate!
A few images of tonight’s fantastic festivities..
Let’s hope it continues in 2020.
