Klaahsom und Krampus

In the organizer's words:

A recent report by STRG_F and Panorama about the Klaasohm festival on Borkum caused quite a stir:

The festival, which is organized by the Borkum Boys' Association (VBJ) on 5 December, causes discussion mainly because of the parade of the seven masked "Klaasohms". During their march, they capture women and beat them with cow horns - a tradition reminiscent of Krampus Day, which is also celebrated on December 5. Both customs share historical roots, ranging from beating with rods to masked runs.

In an interview with ethnologist Thomas Hauschild and author of the article Gunnar Krupp, the background to these controversial rituals is examined. The social responsibility of preserving or abolishing such traditions will also be discussed - including the Krampus masks from the MARKK collection.

The event will be held in German in the large lecture hall.

Price information:

Museum admission