Tuifltog Sterzing – Krampus Day

The Tuifltog, the day of the devils of Vipiteno

Every year, on the evening of December 5th, the historic center of Vipiteno (Sterzing), in the heart of the Upper Isarco Valley (Wipptal), becomes the stage for one of the most spectacular traditions in South Tyrol: the Tuifltog, literally the "day of the devils." This is not just a simple evening parade, but an entire day during which the Tuifl — devils in the local dialect — accompany Saint Nicholas through the streets of the town, which is why the event is called a "day" rather than just a procession.

Saint Nicholas, the Moors, and the Tuifl

The ritual centers on the figure of Saint Nicholas, who spends the afternoon visiting homes, bringing gifts to children alongside his faithful servant Ruprecht and the Moors. By his side marches the host of devils, who use their whips to keep order and leave a mark of their passing by smearing soot on the faces of the bravest spectators.

What makes the Tuifl of Vipiteno unique is that they do not wear masks: their faces and hands are covered in soot, which they also use to blacken the so-called Tratzer, the young people who provoke and chase the devils throughout the day in an ancient game of challenge and pursuit through the alleys.

The parade through the Twelve Tower

The highlight is the grand evening parade, which begins around 6:00 PM. The procession starts in the northern part of the historic center, travels through the Old Town, reaches the Town Square, and passes under the famous Twelve Tower (Zwölferturm), the symbol of Vipiteno, before descending into the New Town. The sight of the torchlit procession of devils passing under the illuminated tower is the most iconic image of the evening.

An Advent tradition

The Tuifltog falls in the middle of the Vipiteno Christmas season, when the town also hosts its charming Christmas market. It is an opportunity to discover the most authentic Alpine folklore in the province of Bolzano, within a medieval town considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. The event is free and takes place outdoors, among the streets and squares of the historic center.

Organized by the Vipiteno-Racines Tourist Association, the Tuifltog attracts numerous visitors every year from all over South Tyrol and beyond, all fascinated by a tradition that intertwines devotion to Saint Nicholas with the unsettling and ancient figure of the Alpine devils.