Best Holiday Incense & The Origins of Krampus
One of our favorite products in the shop is the Krampus Incense by Seawitch Botanicals - a delightful blend of Frankincense, Myrrh, Fir, Peppermint and Holiday Spices. It is so good we burn it year round.
This all-natural essential oil incense sends a cheeky shout-out to Krampus, releasing dreamy aromas that swirl around like whispers from the mysterious critters hiding in winter’s woods.
Once a year, a gloomy and grumpy spirit stirs from slumber to dish out justice to the naughty! While jolly ol’ Santa brings gifts to the goody-two-shoes, our horned hero crashes the holiday party to haul off the miscreants to places best left unmentioned. Think of him as the OG nightmare before Christmas!
Who the heck is Krampus?
I thought it would be cool to have Anja, our shop manager and resident Krampus expert tell us a little about the lore behind Krampus. Anja grew up in Germany and Krampus was part of her local holiday traditions.
- Christopher Box | Artist & Owner of The Heart Division
Krampus, a captivating and fearsome figure rooted in Alpine folklore, emerges as a dark counterpart to the benevolent St. Nicholas, a character who embodies generosity and kindness. The origins of Krampus can be traced back to the rich traditions of Germany and Switzerland, where he has been a central figure in Christmas celebrations for centuries.
On the evening of December 5th, known as Krampusnacht, the chilling presence of Krampus is felt as he makes his rounds, accompanying St. Nicholas in his annual visits to children. The contrast between St. Nicholas and Krampus is striking and serves to emphasize the cultural values surrounding behavior during the holiday season.
While St. Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with delightful treats such as oranges, nuts, and chocolates, which are typically left in their boots, Krampus takes on a more ominous role. His purpose is to punish those who have been naughty, and he does so with a variety of frightening implements.
Often depicted as a horned, demonic figure with a grotesque and menacing appearance, Krampus is known to carry chains that rattle ominously, as well as switches or bundles of sticks used for thrashing, and even a sack to capture wayward children. This duality of reward and punishment plays a significant role in instilling moral lessons within the community, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of one's actions.
Over the years, the legend of Krampus has evolved, and his presence is celebrated not only in traditional family settings but also through vibrant public festivities and parades. These events often feature elaborate costumes and performances that bring the character of Krampus to life, blending ancient customs with modern interpretations.
The celebrations are not merely a way to frighten children into good behavior; they also serve to foster a sense of community and shared cultural heritage, as people gather to honor these age-old traditions. The enduring legacy of Krampus, with his dark charm, continues to intrigue and entertain, reminding us that the holiday season encompasses a wide spectrum of emotions—from joy and generosity to fear and caution—creating a rich tapestry of cultural expression that resonates with people of all ages.
As Krampus makes his rounds each December, he remains a fascinating symbol of the complexities of morality and the importance of good behavior, forever etched in the fabric of Alpine folklore.
