SAN ANTONIO, Texas –Several faith leaders, including the Archbishop, have voiced concerns over the planned Krampus Parade scheduled to take place in the city.
The event, inspired by European folklore, has become a topic of debate among religious communities who claim the parade may have a negative impact on children.
The Archbishop, Gustavo Garcia-Siller, issued a statement expressing his unease about the event’s implications.
Krampus, a mythical creature known for its association with punishing children during the Christmas season, has become a popular figure in various festive processions across the globe.
Pastor Mark Lugo of San Antonio Impact Ministries expressed disapproval, referring to the event as “an attack on our kids.” He added that Krampus symbolizes a demon dragging naughty children to hell and is not welcome in San Antonio.
The religious community calls for city officials, including Mayor Ron Nirenberg, to prevent the event from occurring.
They urge that the parade, set to commence in the King William Historic District, aligns itself with values that do not compromise community integrity.
The parade organizers have declared the event PG-13, and its grand marshal, Bob Crittenden, defended the historical accuracy of the tradition, emphasizing that the parade aligns with the folklore’s spirit. The event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 PM at a local art venue and would traverse through one of San Antonio’s historic neighborhoods.