Unique Oddities & Curiosities Krampus Market Coming to Poughkeepsie

While the holiday season is full of cheer there is a darker part of the festive season too.

Have you ever heard of Krampus?

The History of Krampus and the Holiday Season

If you're looking for Santa's bad-boy counter part, folk lore suggests you're interested in what's known as Krampus.

According to History.com, Krampus is half-man half-goat and has been "apart of folklore in Austria's Alpine region for hundreds of years." Krampus began with pagan origins during the winter solstice.

However, the legend became a part of Christian traditions. History.com goes on to explain these traditions "in which St. Nicholas visited children to reward them on December 5 or 6. Around that time, his menacing partner would also visit kids to punish them."

His menacing partner being Krampus, in some parts of Germany this day is known as Krampusnacht. Also known as, “Krampus night,” when, as reported by History.com, "adults might dress up as Krampus to frighten children at their homes."

And wouldn't you know it, a Krampusnacht is coming to the Hudson Valley.

Krampusnacht Takes Over Poughkeepsie, New York Hotel This Holiday Season

While driving on Route 9 in Poughkeepsie, you're attention may be drawn to a sign outside of the Holiday Inn, IHG Hotel.

There's a sign on the front lawn of the hotel with a photo of Krampus. A quick Google search finds that this year there will be "KRAMPUS NACHT" on Saturday, November 30th, 2024.

This is an 18 and older event with a holiday twist. According to the website, Krampus Nacht is an " Sinterklaas Celebration Canceled for 2024, Small Celebrations to Continue" featuring a Freak Show, seasonal treats and libations, and "Naughty elves being very naughty."

Krampus Nach hosts go on to add "We are here to explore your boundaries in a fun, Holiday type Event!"

There will be performances of "Twisted holiday music," an indoor snowball fight and Krampus will be on hand along with "a few Naughty Elves" that will "help with the spankings." $20 will get your name on the Naughty Boy/Girl on Krampus list to receive a lashing.

Their words, not mine. You can learn more and get your tickets for Poughkeepsie Krampus Nach 2024 at Event Brite.

Merry Krampus!

Popular Hudson Valley Holiday Tradition Canceled for 2024

Will Krampus Nacht become a new Hudson Valley tradition? That has yet to be seen, however a popular holiday tradition called it quits this year possibly making room for Krampus.

The iconic Rhinebeck festival known as Sinterklaas has pulled the plug for the 2024 celebration. Several factors led to this years cancelation, but they are "keeping the light on" for future celebrations.

READ MORE: Sinterklaas Canceled for 2024, Small Celebrations to Continue

There will be several ways to celebrate Sinterklaas this year without the big parade, including dioramas of the honored animals of years past in local Rhinebeck shop windows.