Oachna Krampuslauf (Krampus Parade)

A night of Krampus in the heart of South Tyrol

The Oachna Krampuslauf is a grand Krampus parade that, every two years, brings the village of Naz-Sciaves (Natz-Schabs) to life. Located on a plateau overlooking the Isarco Valley in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region, the event is organized by the Oachna Krampusse association—the Krampusverein from Aica near Bressanone (Aicha bei Brixen)—and stands as one of the most anticipated winter folklore events in the area.

Who are the Krampus?

In the German-speaking Alpine tradition, the Krampus (or Tuifl, meaning "devils" in the South Tyrolean dialect) are demonic figures with terrifying faces, covered in fur and topped with horns, who accompany Saint Nicholas during the Advent season. According to custom, they frighten passersby by shaking bells and chains to drive away the spirits of winter. The day dedicated to their parade is called Tuifltog, the "day of the devils".

Over 600 Krampus on stage

What makes the Oachna Krampuslauf so spectacular is its scale: over 600 Krampus, devils, and dark figures take part in the parade, gathered in dozens of groups (Krampusgruppen) arriving not only from all over South Tyrol but also from Austria and Trentino. The procession crosses the village center and stops in the main square, where the groups perform their show performances accompanied by music, fire games, and pyrotechnic effects.

Safety and respect for tradition

To ensure the event runs safely, the entire parade route is fully fenced, allowing spectators to enjoy the show without the fear of direct contact with the Krampus. Participating groups adhere to a code of conduct that prohibits the use of grease or paint on the public, respecting both safety and the authenticity of the tradition.

The party after the parade

At the end of the procession, the evening continues with the Krampus party—without masks or furs—at the local association house (Vereinshaus) in Naz, to which the entire public is invited. During the event, hot drinks are available to ward off the chill of the December winter evenings.

A biennial event

The Oachna Krampuslauf does not take place every year: the parade is biennial and returns in even-numbered years. In the intermediate years, the Oachna Krampusse offer alternative initiatives, such as the exhibition of wooden masks (Maskenausstellung) set up in the Naz civic center, featuring live carving demonstrations and displays of costumes and accessories from guest groups.