By Ron Evans
Krampusnacht featuring Krampus Seattle returns to Leavenworth for the first time since their legendary appearance in 2021. And by legendary you could say…somewhat controversial.
“A Krampuslauf is a traditional parade, consisting of a number of Krampus Groups dressed in authentic wood carved masks and hand made fur suits.” Says Krampus Seattle’s website. And while many of us were creepily delighted at the (intimidating) sight of the behorned Krampuses (Krampi?) shuffling along the cozy, snowy Bavarian streets of Christmastown, USA — there were some who were less than thrilled.
“From what I understand, the controversy was just a lot of misinformation about what we were doing.” Explains JJ Hernandez of Krampus Kave in Leavenworth. Krampus Kave (understandably) had a big hand in bringing the event to town. “People were under the impression that The Krampus Seattle guys were going to spend all of their December terrorizing the streets of Leavenworth and canceling Christmas and so forth. The reality is that they spent about five hours trying to fit in all the people asking to take pictures with them and then they went to get out of costume and come back to enjoy the town like everyone else.”
As is often the case, the uproar is mostly coming from a few, but loud, people who went so far as to put pressure on the City of Leavenworth and the Chamber of Commerce to shut down this event. Sadly, the complainers won and the Chamber opted to not invite Krampus Seattle back. The kerfuffle made regional and national news and was even used as a “war on Christmas” propaganda piece by religious publications and groups, including CatholicVote.org.
And while the city leaders haven’t warmed up to the idea of having the group back, Krampus Kave is going rogue (lord bless ‘em) and on November 30, the streets of Christmastown will once again be prowled by the mischievous goat-men.
“We always planned to bring them back. I get asked about Krampusnacht at least 5 times every week, year round. It’s just been about timing and organization. And now all our ducks are in a row and we can put on an event that’s really fun for everyone who wants to participate. I’ve learned so much from this experience and I’m sure I’ve got a lot more learning to do before it’s done.” Hernandez added.
From Krampus Seattle’s YouTube channel.
Though the city may not be behind the return, a rather large community of local supporters and businesses are more than eager to join in on the fun. “Along with Kampus Krave, I’d love to shout out BearBear, Bushel and Bee, Ducks and Drakes, Leavenworth Pizza Company, and Munchenhaus in particular, but I have a list of about 50 businesses that want to see a Krampus event in Leavenworth. There are also so many individuals I’ve spoken to that are excited to help and if any Comet readers want to help, they can email Krampus Seattle — Info@krampusseattle.com.”
It’s worth mentioning that the event is actually for a good cause, beyond having a damn fun time. “We raised about two thousand dollars for the Shriners Children’s Hospital last time we did this. And this year, any money we raise over what it takes to put the event on will be donated to a children’s benefit as well.” Hernandez said.
Certainly there will be more whiners rearing their heads once again making a stink — but those people would do well to remember that we all have different tastes, interests and beliefs. There’s room for the occasional event that’s not for everyone. Besides, by the time you’d even send an email off to the mayor, the furry cantankerous beasts will have already moved on for another season.
Krampusnacht returns to Downtown Leavenworth Nov. 30