Board an Adults-Only Cruise with Krampus on a Kentucky Riverboat

This is not your average Kentucky riverboat cruise. Get ready to cruise with Krampus!

A Darker Holiday Tradition

We are all familiar with the tradition of Santa Claus. You've likely sat on his lap as a child to share your dreams of Christmas gifts under the tree. As wholesome and wonderful as all of that is, you may not know about the darker side of the season - Krampus.

Krampus Is An Anit-Santa of Sorts

You may not be familiar with Krampus, and that's ok. We'll give you a quick, little history lesson on this piece of holiday folklore. While Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas as he is sometimes known, is traditionally used as positive reinforcement to get children to behave, with the promise that he rewards good behavior by bringing toys and gifts to the children who mind their parents, Krampus is what you might call the anti-Santa.

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Horned Half-Human Half-Goat

See while Santa is depicted as friendly, warm, and jolly, Krampus is a horned half-human and half-goat beast that punishes and whips children who misbehave. In German folklore, it is said that Krampus would chase down naughty children and throw them in his sack on Krampusnacht, which according to NationalToday.com, is celebrated every year on December 5th.

Krampusnacht is celebrated on December 5 every year across Germany, other European countries, and Australia. It occurs the night before the celebration of the Feast of St. Nicholas, a night when people dress up as the devil Krampus and chase naughty children through the streets. The children are told off by the Krampus and given bundles of ‘ruten,’ a cluster of twigs, so they don’t forget the Krampus after he leaves.

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Take a Cruise with Krampus in Kentucky

So now that you know more about this terrifying, anthropomorphic beast, are you ready to set off on a cruise with him? The Belle of Louisville Riverboats will be hosting a Krampus Cruise aboard the Mary M. Oliver Riverboat, and you're invited!

When and Where to Cruise with Krampus

This two hour moonlit cruise is 21-and over and will offer music, as well as cocktails and food for purchase. Krampus will be aboard too and attendees can get a photo with the beast while socializing with friends old and new. The Krampus Cruise takes place on December 6, 2024. Organizers say dress for the event is casual, and do encourage you to check the weather.

Know Before You Go

Before cruising with Krampus, you will need a ticket which can be purchased in advance here. Tickets are $34.99 per adult. Flat shoes are encouraged as surfaces can be uneven. Additionally, you should plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to cruise time. The cruise departs from 131 W River Road, Louisville, Kentucky.

[Source: Belle of Louisville Riverboats]

25 Creepy Vintage Christmas Ornaments You Won't Believe Were Made

Sure, you could decorate your Christmas tree with adorable ornaments that will sparkle and shine during festive family gatherings. Then again, you might be better off choosing ornaments that will ensure some of your family never return. We recently scoured eBay and found some of the creepiest vintage Christmas ornaments that will put a scare into your guests this holiday season.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll