Krampus is the dark counterpart to Saint Nicholas in Central European folklore. A horned, goat-like beast with dark fur and cloven hooves, he serves a grim purpose: while Nicholas rewards good children with gifts, Krampus punishes the naughty. On Krampusnacht (December 5th), he traditionally roams the streets rattling rusty chains and wielding birch branches to frighten misbehaving youth. This enduring legend adds an eerie edge to the holidays, serving as a frightening reminder for children to behave.