Krampus brings dark where St. Nicholas brings light. Guzel.at / Shutterstock
Traditionally, Krampus appears on the night of December 5th, known as Krampus Night or “Krampusnacht.”
While Saint Nicholas visits well-behaved children with modest gifts and treats, Krampus visits the naughty children, carrying chains, bells, and birch branches. Some legends say he drags misbehaving children to the underworld.
The next day, Nicholas Day, is for celebrating the good children. This pairing reflects a balance between reward and punishment, a concept deeply ingrained in both pagan and Christian traditions.
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