Krampuses scare the crowds in Klagenfurt (Photo by Georg Holzer) North American kids have it easy. We get on Santa's bad side and what happens? A disappointing lump of coal in our stocking instead of TMX Elmo. In some European countries, we'd be the ones in a sack -- being carried off by St. Nick's frightening associates. In much of Europe, gifts are delivered not by Santa, but by St. Nicholas (the slimmer, more serious forebear of Mr. Claus). But the good saint doesn't just reward the nice kiddies; he knows that some have been naughty, too. Not wanting to get his hands (or pretty robes) dirty, St. Nick employs a variety of assistants to frighten the mischief out of misbehaving tots. In Austria, Nick's companions are demonic creatures called Krampuses, with huge horns, shaggy hair, and menacing teeth. They carry birch switches for lashing wayward youngsters, and sacks to haul off the truly deplorable ones. Traditionally, on December 5, the eve of St. Nicholas Day, Nick and his beasties roam the streets, visiting children's homes (the good ones get rewarded; the bad ones -- well, best not to think about it). In many places, though, the day has become Krampusfest, with throngs of grownups in horrific, elaborate costumes running the streets, fueled as much by schnapps as by the desire to encourage filial virtue. But if Krampus is keeping the kids in line, who's watching the Krampus? Suggested Sites... St. Nicholas Eve - Krampus Day - the story of the Krampus and his role in Christmas celebrations. Wikipedia: Companions of Saint Nicholas - from Krampus to Knecht Ruprecht to Zwarte Piet. Krampus-Umzug 2006 in Klagenfurt - hundreds of photos of amazing Krampus costumes. Krampus Postcards - vintage images of the demonic holiday character. Krampus - an upcoming film based on the Krampus legend.

Directory categories: Krampus, Companions of Saint Nicholas, Saint Nicholas, Saint Nicholas Day, Christmas Around the World

Archived under: Austria, Christmas, Holidays, Horror, Krampus, Mythology and Folklore, Regional

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