SAVORING THE VOYAGE

Krampus – Christmas’ unsung hero.

At least stateside, that is. But the figure has grown in popularity in recent years with celebrations honoring him around the globe – including the small, central Florida town of Sanford.

Krampus is a legendary figure from Central European folklore, known as the dark counterpart to St. Nicholas. While St. Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with gifts and treats, Krampus is said to punish the naughty ones (the OG Elf on a Shelf). Often depicted as a fearsome, horned creature with cloven hooves, a long tongue, and a bundle of birch sticks for swatting. The origins of Krampus trace back to pagan traditions, where he symbolized the darker, wilder side of winter. Over time, Krampus became entwined with Christmas celebrations, particularly in Austria and Germany. And on December 5th, he is honored during the tradition of Krampusnacht (or Krampus Night).

In places like Sanford, FL, Krampusnacht celebrations blend spooky fun with holiday cheer, offering a unique way to embrace the festive season with a twist.

Sanford has a notable connection to German heritage. German immigrants were among the many groups that helped shape the city’s identity, particularly in agriculture and trade. Today, Sanford ties to German culture is evident while simply strolling the downtown streets. And these folks celebrate Krampus Night in an epic way.

A wrestling match between Krampus and Saint Nick.

2024 is the sixth year they’ve brought this wrestling match to the many, many eager attendees. It was a happy accident I and my crew ended up here on this most festive night. Man, am I glad the winds brought me here.

The reason we headed for Sanford was to enjoy the best German restaurant I’ve ever experienced – and I’m saying that as someone who has been to Germany three times. Downtown Sanford’s cornerstone restaurant, Hollerbach, deserve a blog post all it’s own.

Operating since 2001, this restaurant has become a beloved destination – for excellent reasons. The menu is so massive it’s presented like a newspaper. Filled with every German dish you can imagine, any food I’ve enjoyed here has been nothing short of fantastic. Whatever entrée you choose to enjoy, be sure to get the Riesenbreze Aufschnitt appetizer – a giant Bavarian pretzel with chef’s selection of charcuterie.

Naturally, there’s not just a beer menu but a guide to said beers. Yes, you can order in a boot (multiple sizes, even!). And if you’re here in winter, gluhwein is a must. It’s a traditional German mulled wine served this time of year, literally translating to “glow-wine” because of how you feel after you’ve been drinking tiny mugs outside in the cold.

As you might imagine, the restaurant is absolutely packed during events like these with people wearing their Krampus best. Be prepared for a decent wait (45min to 1 hour) and use that time to stroll the nearby shops.

Adjacent to the café is Hollerbach’s Outfitters, offering authentic German clothing and gifts and even a bakery case with loads of homemade, authentic pastries and desserts. Including treats I’ve seen only within Germany! If you’re feeling festive, there’s a handful of bars in the immediate area. Bar hopping these for drink specials is a fun way to pass time. And during Krampus Night, a Christmas market (Krampus themed) is set up in the town square – right next to the boxing ring where the showdown between Krampus and St. Nick takes place.

All this goes down at sunset. But, it’s worth spending the day in Sanford. The “Historic Waterfront Gateway City” sits upon Lake Monroe with a picturesque walkway along the waterfront, ideal for biking, walking, or simply enjoying the views. Home to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Garden and Sanford Museum showcasing the city’s history, including artifacts from founder Henry Shelton Sanford. Sanford is a destination off the beaten path, where you can experience the enchantment of old, “real” Florida.