During the holiday season, my mind immediately goes to Krampus.
As Christmas wasn’t exactly a big part of my life being raised Jewish, the horror fan in me gravitates to the Alpine folkloric tales of Krampus kidnapping and torturing bad children. Krampus has seen a recent pop culture upsurge, depicted extensively in horror movies cashing in on the traditional Horror/Christmas cinematic showcase. In Dwayne Johnson’s new Christmas film, Red One, he to dips his tow in the Krampus well. Red One‘s Krampus received widespread critical acclaim, and was exemplified wonderfully at the Krampus Bar pop-up in The Back Room.
In Red One, Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans suspect that Krampus (Kristofer Hivju) is working with the Grýla (Kiernan Shipka) to kidnap Santa Claus (J. K. Simmons). Most reviewers agree that Kristofer Hivju’s Krampus is a highlight of the film, in large part thanks to Hivju’s gravelly and entertaining performance and the fantastic practical makeup effects for Krampus’ design. The ghoulish fun translated well to the Krampus Bar, which was a blast to attend as a horror fan.
The skull decorations were gorgeous, including a black Christmas tree adorned with skulls and a string of red lights. The darts and “Krampus Schlap” challenge were nice touches, though the photo opportunities were a great highlight, whether by the roaring fire, Krampus’ throne, or in the hidden back area where you can get light-up drinks to take home. The Krampus Bar offered four custom cocktails, though the Red One Marg was my favorite. You can take your photo with Krampus on his throne or chat with him as he takes your order.
Overall, the Krampus Bar was a fun way to celebrate the oncoming holidays with a bit of fearful flair. It’s the perfect alternative to the typical chintzy Christmas pop-ups you’d typically see in New York. If you’re looking for a party with skulls and metal covers of Christmas songs, head to the Krampus Bar for your anti-Christmas treat. Be sure to send a postcard!
The Krampus Bar will be open to the public tonight, Friday, December 13 from 8 PM – 10 PM and Saturday, December 14 from 2 PM – 8 PM. Red One is in theaters everywhere and streaming on Prime Video.
