I will be in Salzburg, Munich and Nuremberg in December. I found out my adult grandson likes masks. I think a Krampus mask would be a great Christmas present. The only problem is I have no idea of where to get one.
Any Krampus shoppers out here with ideas?
Just for Salzburg.
I guess, it is best to buy one from a private seller.
https://www.willhaben.at/iad/kaufen-und-verkaufen/marktplatz/verkleidungen/krampus-perchten-6489?areaId=501
The professional mask producers are somewhat outside of the city of Salzburg.
https://www.rettei-masken.at/index.php?article_id=65
https://www.krampusmaske.com/masken.html
All the links given above lead to pages in German. Best is to use an automatic translator in your browser.
Fun gift idea. Real carved Krampus masks are serious handmade pieces, often several hundred euros, so a simpler one might suit. In Salzburg the Christkindlmarkt on Domplatz usually has stalls with smaller carved masks and Krampus figures. Around 5 Dec the Krampus runs happen in town and the nearby villages, quite a show. In Munich try the Kripperlmarkt by Rindermarkt, it’s the folk craft corner of the Christmas market. Nuremberg is more gingerbread and Christmas angels than Krampus. If you want a proper one, order ahead from one of the carvers wmt1 linked so it’s ready when you reach Salzburg
If you’re looking at a hand-carved Krampus mask, I’d pay particular attention to the weight. Some have real horns and are quite heavy. That might be a bit impractical as a Christmas present for your grandson, especially if you have to carry the mask home in your luggage. I’d also ask the professional carvers whether they even have any ready-made masks available to take away.
You might want to have a look at the private listings on Willhaben. With second-hand masks, I’d ask about the padding and fastenings on the inside.
Or the little Krampus figurines from Minikrampus in Hof near Salzburg. If it doesn’t necessarily have to be a mask to wear. They’re intended more as decorations.
"Regular" Krampus masks suitable for wearing in costume start at €1000 for the most basic carved one. My concern buying one used off the various e-bay types of sites is what if there is some issue? I won't be there to resolve it.
The above suggestions regarding the Christmas Market stalls looks quite promising. While I may not get a full sized wearable mask, it at least offers hope that I can get a representation.
As for prices, I’d also tend to look at the Christmas markets. Unless, of course, your grandson doesn’t want to wear the mask for a Krampus parade. If he’s looking at a hand-carved mask costing over 1,000 euros, it should be clear what he has in mind.
You might also find smaller wooden masks at the Salzburg Christmas market. When it comes to decorative pieces, you should make sure they’re actually carved and not just moulded from synthetic resin.
Any chance you could just take him to a 5 December Krampus event? Some places like Sterzing in South Tyrol are more makeup heavy. I have a switch from a Krampus in Gschnitztal. A cowbell and fur suit? As stated many of these masks are hand carved, heavy and antiques. Some are priceless. Telling you what you already know.
The fabulous Christmas market at Schloss Hellbrunn has a special Krampus area - I'd prioritize a visit.
He is not with me on this trip. I’m picking up a mask as his Christmas gift. Thanks, Emily, I will make certain to visit Schloss Hellbrunn
