In French Christmas folklore, Père Fouettard is the companion of Père Noël known for scolding or punishing naughty children.
Père Fouettard, whose name means “Father Whipper,” appears in regional Saint Nicholas traditions, particularly in northeastern France and nearby parts of Belgium and Luxembourg. He contrasts with Saint Nicholas, who rewards well-behaved children with sweets or presents.
Stories about the character vary considerably. Some portray him as a servant or companion of Saint Nicholas, while others connect him to a darker legend involving an innkeeper. His appearance is often described as dark-clothed, bearded, and carrying a whip or bundle of sticks.
Père Fouettard is related in function to Krampus and Knecht Ruprecht, but these are distinct regional figures. Père Noël is the French name for the modern Christmas gift-bringer, not his punitive companion.