St. Nicholas Wild Night and Krampus Parade

Every year, on the evening of December 5, the historic center of Vipiteno (Sterzing) comes alive with one of the most fascinating and spectacular events of the South Tyrolean winter: the Krampus Parade, known locally as the “Tuifltog,” the night of the devils.

Along with St. Nicholas, who brings gifts and blessings to the little ones, his creepy companions appear: the servant Ruprecht, the Moors, and especially the “Tuifl,” devils with hand-carved masks, curved horns, and loud cowbells. With whips and chains, these infernal spirits parade through the streets of Sterzing, keeping “order” among the crowd and leaving traces of their passage with the blackened faces of a few onlookers-a goliardic gesture reminiscent of ancient folk traditions.

The origin of this custom goes back to the earliest times: a winter ritual created to drive away the spirits of frost and darkness, symbolizing the transition from the cold season to the rebirth of light.

The parade starts at 6 p.m., departing from the north end of the Old Town. The procession passes through Old Town, reaches Town Square, passes under the Tower of Twelve and continues to the end of New Town. Before the grand parade, St. Nicholas visits families and children, accompanied by his little devils, in an atmosphere filled with mystery and tradition.