When the bells ring out and masked figures emerge from the darkness, Advent reveals its wild side. Let us introduce you to the world of Tyrolean traditions.
At first, you can only hear them. A deep, uneven clanging of bells somewhere among the dark streets, still some way off. Then the sound draws closer. Torches flicker by the roadside, people huddle a little closer together – and out of the darkness emerge figures wearing carved wooden masks, horns, and shaggy furs.
When the devils parade through the village
Have you ever had a front-row view of a Krampus parade? 5 December is traditionally Krampus Day, but Krampuses start appearing across Tyrol as early as mid-November – including in Zell am Ziller in Zillertal. The tradition is part of Advent in Tuxertal too. Young men don hand-carved wooden masks, known locally as Larve. Each mask has its own distinctive features, and every village has its own take on the tradition. Loud, wild, a little eerie – and fascinating. But Krampus is more than just a figure to frighten people: he’s the wild companion of St Nicholas.
St Nicholas, the gentle counterpart
On 6 December, things quieten down again. St Nicholas comes knocking at doors, dressed in a red cloak and carrying his bishop’s staff and golden book. He reads out what went well over the past year – and what didn’t. Those who’ve been good receive nuts, mandarins, and gingerbread. At the Hotel Neue Post, we have a soft spot for this time of year: torchlight outside, candlelight within.
Perchten: The wild side of Advent
The Perchten are another part of the run-up to Christmas in Tyrol. Especially in Tyrol’s Unterland region, the “Peaschtl” take to the streets in elaborate, heavy costumes to drive away the spirits of winter. Good to know: in Zillertal, the Perchten have a day all their own – 5 January. That’s when the “Schnapsperchtn” make their rounds, wishing everyone “A glixeligs nois Johr” (Happy New Year in the local dialect) and sipping schnapps through a straw. After all, the masks have to stay on.
After all that excitement, warm up with a glass of mulled wine in our cosy, rustic bar, or slip into our outdoor rooftop pool beneath the stars. Our team would be happy to tell you the best spot to see the Krampuses this year.
Brave enough for the front row?
