Bad little boys and girls better keep an eye out, because Krampus is coming to town.
Everyone's favorite furry, horned goat demon is descending on the Germania Society's Christkindlmarkt this weekend, thanks to Krampuslauf Zinzinnati.
The mythical beast typically walks the streets on Dec. 5 during Krampusnacht (or Krampus Night, an evening of debaucherous revelry) and on Dec. 6 for Saint Nicholas Day.
But he's visiting Cincinnati early, as Krampus — perhaps several of them — will be crawling through the Germania Society's holiday shopping market 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 4 and Saturday, Nov. 5 for photo ops and to spread the story of his role in German folklore.
And while the group does claim to "put the ghoul back in your yule," Krampuslauf Zinzinnati is very adamant they aren't out to scare children.
"Our purpose is cultural education and keeping this German tradition alive," reads their website.
The Germania Society is also keeping tradition alive by hosting the self-described “oldest and most authentic Christmas market” in Cincinnati Nov. 4-6.
The annual Christkindlmarkt will be held at Germania Park, featuring a pavilion and heated tents filled with local vendors and imported goods. Find everything from German nutcrackers and steins to cuckoo clocks and ornaments nestled between local arts and crafts. There will also be wursts, Bavarian pastries, mock turtle soup and traditional gluhwein (hot, mulled wine).
In addition to Krampus, Santa Claus and St. Nicholas will be in attendance all weekend, and there will be a special lantern parade on Saturday.
The Germania Society's Christkindlmarkt takes place 5-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 and noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6. Admission is $5 and free for those 12 and under and active/retired military.
Germania Park is located 3529 W. Kemper Road, Pleasant Run. More info: germaniasociety.com.
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