This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine one of San Antonio’s newest and most debated cultural gatherings: the Krampus Parade in King William. Host Bob Rivard is joined by Bob Crittenden, senior Scrum Manager at USAA and founder of San Antonio’s Krampus event, which drew approximately 10,000 participants and spectators in its inaugural year.
Together, they discuss the origins of Krampus in Central European Alpine traditions, its transformation from private house visits to public festivals, and how Krampus found its place in San Antonio’s holiday calendar. The conversation also highlights the unexpectedly large turnout, the local protests that fueled wider interest, and the logistical changes for this year’s parade—now expanding its scope and moving to Beethoven Manicore.
Topics include:
• The roots of Krampus, St. Nicholas, and winter folklore across cultures
• The evolution of the Krampus parade in San Antonio—from idea to city-permitted event
• The intersection of German immigrant history and contemporary celebrations in King William
• Public response, including media coverage, protest, and “Krampus Gate”
• What to expect at this year’s parade: route changes, street closures, entertainment, and costume contests
• How Krampus is being localized—incorporating elements like the “devil in the dance hall” from Mexican American folklore
• The growth of Krampus-themed events in San Antonio, from Fiesta medals to afterparties
For plugged-in San Antonians, this episode explores how global folklore shapes hyper-local celebrations—and why new traditions can provoke both controversy and community.
Find more information on the 2025 Yuletide Parade at https://krampusportal.com/.
RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:
▶️ #108. What It Takes to Host the Final Four—Inside San Antonio’s Big Moment – Dive deeper into San Antonio’s cultural evolution with host Bob Rivard as he chats with Elena Wells and Jenny Carnes about the city’s preparations to host the 2025 NCAA Men's Final Four. From economic impact to community festivities, this episode reveals how major events continue to shape San Antonio’s identity and future.
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