Krampus Art Walk

On Thursday, December 12, LA’s monthly Downtown Art Walk will be overrun by a  pack of homegrown Krampuses, the horned and furry yuletide devil who accompanies St. Nicholas on his rounds in alpine countries. This European-style Krampus walk will be the first of its  kind in the Western US and feature original suits created over the previous year by the Krampus Los Angeles Troupe.  The public Krampus run or walk – Krampuslauf – is part of a centuries-old tradition, and Krampus LA organizers respect and adhere to that working model. At  these events, Krampuses take to the streets or other public areas waving switches, rattling chains and bells  and otherwise  playfully menacing onlookers with the threat of “punishment” for the “sins” of the previous year.  (NOTE: Krampus focuses his attention almost exclusively on thrill-seeking adults rather than children. Children presented by their parents may be greeted, but never frightened.) This year’s beastly  galumphing will be accompanied by a small marching musical ensemble – Free Range Orkestar substituting authentic Austrian folk music for their usual Balkan repertoire. St. Nicholas will also be along to bestow some friendly blessings and goodies