Krampuslauf Leavenworth, Performer & Handler Application

This application is open to Krampus character performers and non-costumed handlers/wranglers participating in Krampuslauf Leavenworth, produced by Krampus Seattle. Performers should provide a short overview of their performance style or character concept and any relevant experience with festivals, parades, or immersive events. Handlers and wranglers should describe their experience supporting costumed performers in public or event settings. All applicants should provide basic contact information and indicate their intended role. Selected participants will help bring the Alpine folklore tradition of Krampus to life along the streets of Leavenworth, Washington.

Similar to past years, we anticipate a bar crawl on Friday evening followed by the Krampuslauf procession on Saturday evening. More details on both nights — including times, meeting locations, and the full agenda — will be shared directly with approved participants as plans are finalized.

While our application and registration process is now open, many event details are still being finalized. We appreciate your patience as we build something truly spectacular for the Pacific Northwest Krampus community.

Participation in Krampuslauf Leavenworth, a Krampus Seattle event, is subject to the following Terms & Conditions. Formal acceptance of these terms will be completed within the application. By applying, being accepted, and/or attending in any capacity — whether as a costumed performer or a non-costumed handler/wrangler — you agree to comply with all policies outlined below.

Eligibility
All participants must be at least 18 years old or have written consent from a parent or legal guardian. All applicants must submit accurate personal information and agree to comply with event policies, safety requirements, and staff instructions. Krampus Seattle reserves the right to approve or deny any application at their discretion.

Application & Acceptance
Submitting an application does not guarantee participation. Accepted participants will receive confirmation via email along with any required onboarding materials. Acceptance may be revoked if a participant fails to meet deadlines, provide required documentation, or comply with event expectations.

Roles & Responsibilities
Performers agree to present acts, characters, or roles consistent with Krampus and Alpine folklore tradition. Performers must adhere to scheduled call times, remain in designated performance areas, and follow all instructions from Krampus Seattle staff and safety personnel.

Handlers and wranglers serve as the primary support for costumed performers and are responsible for assisting with navigation, physical monitoring, crowd management, and real-time communication with event staff. Handlers must remain attentive and available to their assigned performer throughout the event and are expected to act quickly and calmly in the event of an emergency, conflict, or safety concern.

Audience Interaction & Consent
Physical contact with attendees is prohibited without clear, enthusiastic consent. Harassment, chasing, cornering, threatening behavior, or unwanted physical contact is strictly prohibited. All participants must disengage immediately if any individual appears uncomfortable. Children must always be permitted to initiate interaction on their own terms. These standards apply equally to performers and handlers.

Costumes, Props & Conduct
Costumes and props must be safe for public interaction and free of sharp edges, projectiles, or hazardous materials. Fire, pyrotechnics, weapons (real or replica), and substances that may cause harm are strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorized by Krampus Seattle. All participants must maintain professional conduct at all times and refrain from harassment, discrimination, excessive intoxication, or disruptive behavior.

Handlers & Wranglers
All costumed performers are strongly encouraged to attend with a dedicated non-costumed handler or wrangler. A handler assists with navigation, physical monitoring, crowd management, and communication with event staff while the performer is in costume. Performing without a handler is permitted but strongly discouraged. Handlers do not perform in costume and must remain identifiable and accessible to event staff at all times.

Safety Requirements
All participants must comply with safety protocols, including crowd interaction guidelines, emergency procedures, and staff directives. Any behavior that endangers attendees, staff, or other participants may result in immediate removal from the event. All participants must report injuries, hazards, or unsafe conditions to staff immediately.

Parking
No reserved or dedicated parking is available for performers or handlers. All participants are responsible for securing their own parking prior to the event. Parking is available in designated city parking areas and paid lots throughout Leavenworth. All participants must adhere to City of Leavenworth parking regulations and enforcement. Violations are the sole responsibility of the individual.

Photography & Media Release
By participating, all participants grant Krampus Seattle permission to photograph, film, and record their likeness for promotional, archival, and commercial use without compensation. Participants may not obstruct official media crews or interfere with event documentation.

Compensation & Benefits
Unless otherwise stated in writing, participation is voluntary and unpaid. Participants may receive access to designated performer and handler areas. Any additional compensation must be outlined in a separate written agreement.

Removal & Termination
Krampus Seattle reserves the right to remove any participant who violates these Terms & Conditions, engages in unsafe or inappropriate behavior, or disrupts event operations. Removal may occur without prior warning and is final. Removal of a performer may also result in the removal of their associated handler, and vice versa.

Weather, Delays & Cancellations
The event will proceed in most weather conditions. Krampus Seattle may modify, delay, or cancel performances due to safety concerns, severe weather, or operational issues. No compensation will be provided for cancellations unless specified in a separate agreement.

Liability Waiver
All participants participate at their own risk. By attending, participants waive all claims against Krampus Seattle, its organizers, sponsors, volunteers, and staff for injuries, property damage, or losses incurred during the event, except in cases of proven negligence.

Compliance With Laws
All participants must comply with all local, state, and federal laws, including regulations related to public gatherings, safety, and conduct.

Agreement
Formal acceptance of these Terms & Conditions is completed within the application. By submitting your application, being accepted, and/or attending in any capacity, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by all terms listed above.