Krampus – demon-like creatures from Alpine folklore – parade through the city wearing carved masks and extravagant fur costumes. St. Nicholas brings small gifts before Christmas and traditional Austrian “Turmbläser” (brass bands that play in the towers) and choirs add to the magic of Advent with Christmas songs. Lovingly designed nativity scenes are displayed for all to admire and traditional delicacies like Christmas biscuits are served. The “Christmas in the Mountains” celebration in Igls is a particularly special and wonderful custom that brings together the entire village and features a parade of locals dressed in historic costumes. If you want to experience a parade in Innsbruck, check out the “Christkindleinzug” just before Christmas when hundreds of children dressed as angels, shepherds and the baby Jesus parade through the city. For the atmospheric finale they all sing Silent Night together.