Krampus punishes naughty kids this week in Pinellas Park

If your kid is a piece of shit, or just loves freaky monsters, it’s time to introduce them to Krampus.

The horned, hairy German holiday icon works alongside Santa, who visits children the night before the Feast of St. Nicholas on Dec. 5. While St. Nicholas rewards good children with presents, Krampus scares and punishes bad children.

At its second annual Krampusnacht celebration, the German American Society of Pinellas County’s Krampus Verein (“club”) will tell Krampus’ tale and dole out punishments to locals in its Krampuslauf procession.

The club premiered its celebration last year at the Society’s Pinellas Park headquarters. This year, it promises upgrades to its sound system and event layout, along with a Bierhall.

Krampus cosplayers are ready to scare the holiday cheer into you while DJ NightRaven keeps the vibe freaky with German metal, dark wave, post-punk and industrial music. Island Witches Dance Troupe will do fire performances, and there will be a Feuerzangenbowle demo (rum-soaked sugarloaf + fire + mulled wine) along with other traditional German fare.

Ridesharing or carpooling is recommended for the limited parking situation, unless you want to start the punishment early.

Tickets are $17.85 for Krampusnacht, happening Friday, Dec. 5. in Pinellas Park.

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This article appears in Nov. 27 – Dec. 03, 2025.