Images of Krampus—Saint Nick’s Dark Companion

Recent images of people dressed in frightening Krampus costumes, parading in front of crowds and chasing bystanders

Tales of Saint Nicholas might feature him bringing gifts to good boys and girls, but ancient folklore in Europe’s Alpine region also speaks of Krampus, a frightening demonlike creature who emerges during the Yule season, looking for naughty children to punish in horrible ways—or possibly to drag back to his lair in a sack. In the dark winter months, Krampus associations in villages hold parades, playfully frightening onlookers on Krampusnacht by chasing them and hitting them with sticks during a run through the streets.

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