Krampus

Krampusnacht, better known as the Night of the Krampus, is a tradition originating from ancient Alpine folklore. On December fifth, the eve of St. Nicholas Day, the demonic creature Krampus will appear to punish the naughty children while St. Nicholas comes to reward the good. Krampus himself is an entity with cloven hooves, fangs, fur, the horns of a goat and sometimes an excessively long tongue. The "celebration" of Krampus comes from pagan traditions surrounding the winter solstice — these customs would blend elements from Saturnalia and eventually Christmas.

Although the idea of Krampusnacht is nearly two thousand years old, it's still celebrated in many of the Alpine regions of Eastern Europe. The day is accompanied by huge parades and Krampuslaufs — in these "Krampus Runs", hundreds of people run through the streets dressed as terrifying Krampuses. The costumes are elaborate with detailed masks, bells, chains and fur, and the whole goal of these runs is to scare children into being good while still upholding an ancient tradition.