Krampusnacht Kreepshow and Black Forest Krampusnacht are happening Dec. 1-2, 2023
Both events are scheduled for The Hofford Mill in Weissport, Pa.
While Christmas preparations are in full swing across the country, one venue in Northeastern Pennsylvania is celebrating an alternative to the traditional, jolly festivities.
The Hofford Mill in Weissport, Pa., is hosting two days of Krampus-themed events on Dec. 1-2, 2023.
Krampus is a character with goat horns, cloven hooves, and an often demon-like face. The creature is said to have originated in Eastern Europe.
According to folklore, Krampus arrives in December to punish children who misbehave, as opposed to Saint Nicholas, who rewards well-behaved children with presents.
Krampusnacht Kreepshow, an adult-oriented event, will kick off the weekend at The Hofford Mill on Dec. 1, 2023. It's the pre-party to the family-friendly Carbon County Black Forest Krampusnacht, which will be held at the venue on Dec. 2.
“We just want people to come out and have a good time and to give a bit of an alternative to the candy cane Christmas, said Amy Dougherty, owner of Black Rock Events, which organized the Krampus celebrations. “It gives us something a little bit different to enjoy for the holidays.”
 |
| Photo: Haunt Hunters App Black Forest Krampusnacht, 2021 |
Friday, Dec. 1, 2023
Krampusnacht Kreepshow begins Friday evening. According to the event announcement, it includes:
Live music by Habeas Krampus: The Twisted Oompah led by Mistriss Krismas, who “punishes the naughty and teases the nice.”
Twisted sideshow antics of Lady Gypsy, Professional Monstrosity.
A screening hosted by Madame Crufeli of the original “A Christmas Carol” (1951).
Awards by the Keystone Arts Collective for the best dressed Kreeps and Krampi.
Eastern European food and drink specials from the Hofford Mill and Coal Country Bolio and unique, alternative and cultural vendors.
Tickets for Friday's event are a $5 donation per person. Parking is available onsite for Krampus Kreepshow.
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023
Saturday's Black Forest Krampusnacht, appropriate for all age groups, runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes:
Approximately 100 “fun-filled, creepy, spooky, unique, and Krampusy” vendors.
A Krampuslauf Parade of the Krampi with acostume contest judged by Susquehanna Krampus.
Krampus-themed games, including a baby toss competition, using fake babies, in keeping with the legend of Krampus whisking away ill-behaved children.
Krampusnacht photo ops.
Live music by Big Country; the Peaceful Outlaws; Jessica Corbin; and polka band, The Pennsylvania Villagers.
A series of local musicians presented by WaxPax Records.
An interactive Krampus display by Robbie's Balloons.
A series of D&D mini-campaigns by Jokers Are Wild.
Doc Robert's of Colossal Radio playing festive tunes.
Madame Crufeli showcasing her Merry Mutilations Holiday Movie Cuts.
Folklore story time by Danielle Martin of Ambler Library.
Artwork by Keystone Arts Collective members.
Children's arts and crafts.
“It's going to be a busy day,” Dougherty said. “It's going to be a lot to take in in a few hours.”
Dougherty said Black Rock Events was asked by the Carbon Chamber in mid-October to organize Black Forest Krampusnacht, which is in its fourth year.
With help from Marissa Strohlein from Big Creek Vineyard and Kate McEvilly from The Hofford Mill, the trio put an ambitious schedule together to get the job done.
“We worked really hard,” Dougherty said. “We all put a lot of effort in to put this together in a short amount of time.”
If You Go:
Parking will be available onsite for Friday's Krampusnacht Kreepshow.
Onsite parking for Saturday's Black Forest Krampusnacht is limited. Handicapp parking is available onsite. Overflow parking will be available at:
1375 Oak Grove Road
Lehighton, PA 18235
Shuttles will be provided to and from The Hofford Mill, running every 8 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
The cost for parking at both The Hofford Mill and the shuttle site is $20.
