Krampus

Krampus is a horned, demonic figure in Central and Eastern Alpine folklore who accompanies Saint Nicholas during the Christmas season. According to tradition, while Saint Nicholas rewards good children with gifts on December 6th (the Feast of St. Nicholas), Krampus visits on the evening before (December 5th, known as "Krampusnacht" or "Krampus Night") to punish naughty children by swatting them with birch rods.

The exact origins of Krampus remain uncertain, with some scholars suggesting the figure may have pre-Christian roots. A distinctive part of Alpine Christmas traditions, Krampus appears in seasonal events like the "Krampuslauf" (Krampus run), where young men dress as the creature and playfully frighten spectators. The character is also depicted on holiday greeting cards called "Krampuskarten."

In recent decades, Krampus has gained international popularity, appearing in various forms of entertainment media including films, television shows, and video games.