SAN ANTONIO — The Archdiocese of San Antonio is expressing concern about the city’s first-ever Krampus Parade set to be held in the King William Historic District on Dec. 5.
Krampus is a creature from European folklore recognized around the globe through festive processions.
Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller released a statement saying in part:
“I am concerned about the upcoming Krampus Parade that will soon be held in the King William neighborhood and downtown…through the centuries the Catholic Church has voiced its opposition to Krampus celebrations because of his resemblance to the devil.”
The archbishop’s comments come following a group of faith leaders denouncing the parade in front of City Hall on Friday afternoon.
“This is an attack on our kids and Krampus is not welcomed in San Antonio,” said Pastor Mark Lugo of San Antonio Impact Ministries. “It’s a demon that comes in and drags naughty kids to hell.”
Those in attendance are now calling on the City of San Antonio, including Mayor Ron Nirenberg and others to block the event from taking place.
“We’re not here to criticize them but we’re here to do the very thing that the scriptures teach us to do,” said Gene Loeffler, senior pastor at River of Life Church. “We don’t believe this parade is a parade of fun.”
Earlier in the week, parade organizers said they’ve “declared this parade PG-13.”
The parade’s grand marshal, Bob Crittenden noted, “This is the historically accurate way to perform this folklore tradition, as is holding it on the fifth of December, which is the eve of the Feast of Saint Nicholas.”
KENS 5 has not heard back from parade leadership or city officials in response to concerns raised by local religious leaders.
The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Arthouse in Blue Star (134 Blue Star) and travel through the King William neighborhood.