For the third year in a row, crowds gathered in Pittsburgh’s Market Square on Thursday night for a darker and edgier version of the Christmas spirit.
A parade of figures clad in fur, horns and other frightening attire strolled through Market Square for Krampusnacht. It’s a traditionally European take on the Christmas holiday featuring Krampus, the titular creature from folklore.
“It bridges the gap between Halloween and Christmas,” said event organizer Mark Menold of Pittsburgh. “And nobody is selling anything. Get your picture taken with Krampus for free.”
Most of the detailed costumes were handcrafted by their wearers.
Many in the crowd sported their own horns.
The event ended with a free performance by Sleigher, a heavy metal band covering well-known rock songs with a Christmas theme.
