Krampusnacht: The Darker Side of December (and the Perfect Time for Krampus Wax Seals)

When most of us think of December traditions, we picture twinkling lights, cozy mugs of cocoa, and the familiar jingle of Santa’s sleigh. But across parts of Central Europe, the season carries another—much darker—figure: Krampus, the horned companion to St. Nicholas who rewards good children with treats… and warns the naughty with rattling chains and switches.

Welcome to Krampusnacht, the night when folklore steps out of the shadows and revels in a bit of mischief.

What Is Krampusnacht?

Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night, is celebrated on December 5th, the eve of St. Nicholas Day. While St. Nicholas rewards well-behaved children, Krampus takes on the role of stern counterpart—reminding everyone that winter’s magic has always included a touch of consequence and caution.

In towns across Austria, Bavaria, and beyond, you’ll find parades of costumed Krampuses clattering down cobblestone streets, bells ringing, torches blazing, and revelers joining in the strange-yet-delightful dance between merriment and menace.

It’s festive… in a wonderfully eerie way.

A Perfect Inspiration for Letters, Gifts, and Seasonal Correspondence

Because Krampusnacht blends old-world storytelling with dramatic visuals, it pairs beautifully with the art of wax sealing.

At LetterSeals.com, we’ve embraced that blend through our Krampus Design Wax Seal Stamps and our Dark Yule Colorway Wax Sets, inspired by the deep shadows, rich textures, and folklore flair of the season.

Our Krampus Colorways Were Designed for the Season

Each shade in the set carries its own winter mood:

• Glogg | Mulled Wine – rich, warm, and festive

• Coal – dark as a midwinter night

• Alpine Ice – cold and crisp

• Cinder - the smoky edges of a dying fire

Paired with your choice of Krampus stamp design, they create seals that evoke both tradition and storytelling—perfect for:

• Holiday cards that lean a little less sweet

• Seasonal gift wrap with dramatic flair

• Yule celebration invitations

• Letters to friends who love folklore, gothic aesthetics, or mischievous seasonal themes

Bring Krampus to Your Holiday Correspondence

Our Krampus collection is designed to honor the old world while giving you tools to craft something wonderfully unique for the holidays.

If you’re ready to add a little mischief to your stationery this year, explore the full set of Krampus Stamps and Dark Yule Colorways at LetterSeals.com.

Wishing you a delightfully spirited Krampusnacht—and may your envelopes behave accordingly.