The Return of the Krampus

HIGH WINDS WARNING FOR THIS WEEKEND

***The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for this weekend, so we’re expecting it to be very windy on Saturday and Sunday.

Please anticipate some possible changes to timings and locations around the reserve for The Return of the Krampus event at Sherwood, as woodlands can be dangerous places in very windy weather.

Updated Sunday event below.

We’ll keep you as up to date as we possibly can about both days. Please check for any changes when you arrive at the Visitor Centre. 

We’ll also update this page and our visitsherwood Facebook page too.

The safety of our visitors is our highest priority.***

The Krampus is coming back to Sherwood Forest.

After visiting the forest for the last two winters, the Whitby Krampus Run is returning this January and bringing these intriguing mythological creatures from medieval European folklore to life.

Event Highlights:

Meet the Krampus on Saturday:
As you explore Robin Hood’s majestic greenwood, you will have the chance to meet and mingle with the Whitby Krampus Run along Sherwood’s trails, and find out more about the origins of this curious Alpine cultural icon.

Lantern parade on Saturday afternoon:
As dusk falls on Saturday, the Krampus will gather together at the iconic Major Oak.  Visitors can see them there and then set out on a lantern parade back to the Visitor Centre. The parade will begin at 4:30pm at the Major Oak.

There will be theatre too with the Calverton Real Ale and Plough Play Preservation Society performing a traditional – and, no doubt, hilarious – mummers play beginning at 4:15pm at the Major Oak.

Krampus krafting:
Bring a torch or make your own crafted lantern in our Welcome Area with materials and instructions provided for just £3.

Parade to the Major Oak and wassailing ceremony on Sunday:
On Sunday, make a bird-seed shaker in the Visitor Centre and join the Sheriff of Nottingham on a noisy parade to the Major Oak, sending the Krampus back to the snowy Alps. The parade will begin from the Visitor Centre amphitheatre at 11:00am (Updated time*).

The Sheriff will lead a traditional wassailing ceremony, proclaiming good health for the year ahead for Sherwood Forest’s wildlife and ancient oak trees.

This is a free event although there will be a small charge for lantern-making.

Parking costs just £5 per vehicle per day for non-RSPB members, and helps the RSPB to carry out its vital conservation work, but there is no admission charge to enter the reserve.

To find out more about coming to Sherwood Forest, see our Plan Your Visit page.