by InTrieste
On Friday, December 5, the mountain town of Tarvisio, near the borders with Austria and Slovenia, marked the start of the winter season with its traditional Krampus parade, an event that blends folklore, community participation and centuries-old Alpine mythology. The celebration, held annually in early December, drew residents and visitors into the town’s narrow streets for an evening that reflects both local heritage and regional identity.
The procession featured Saint Nicholas, who distributed sweet bread to children, alongside the Krampus, the horned and fur-covered figures rooted in pre-Christian Alpine traditions. Historically, the Krampus were believed to accompany Saint Nicholas during winter visits, balancing the figure of the benevolent saint with a darker, cautionary presence. Their carved wooden masks and elaborate costumes continue to be crafted by local artisans, keeping the tradition intertwined with regional craftsmanship.
This year’s parade moved from Via Dante through the center of town before concluding in Piazza Unità. The event extended beyond the streets: in the nearby woods of Rutte Piccolo, a theatrical performance offered a symbolic retelling of the struggle between good and evil, using firelight and the forest setting to heighten the atmosphere.
To accommodate the influx of visitors, a historic train from Trieste made a special journey to Tarvisio, underscoring the region’s efforts to link cultural tourism with its longstanding railway heritage.
In recent years, towns across the Alpine region have worked to preserve and reinterpret the Krampus tradition, keeping the mythology visible in contemporary life. In Tarvisio, the annual parade has become a key moment in the winter calendar, offering a living expression of legends that have shaped the area for generations.
