digital art collage images created by OneLittleFishie

In Alpine folklore, naughty souls are

consigned to Krampus as punishment

for their transgressions.

It is said the goat-like demon captures especially

unruly children and takes them back to his lair

on the eve of St. Nicholas Day.

In many European countries

a Krampuslauf gathering is held annually,

wherein costumed revelers parade through

the streets menacing the crowd.