What is the name of the Austrian Christmas demon who punishes misbehaving children? Krampus.
Krampus is the horned, anthropomorphic figure of Alpine folklore who traditionally accompanies Saint Nicholas. On the night of 5 December, known as Krampusnacht, he is said to frighten or punish children who have misbehaved, while Saint Nicholas rewards the good. This pairing explains why Krampus is not simply another name for Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus.
He is commonly depicted with black hair or fur, horns, fangs, a long tongue, bells, chains, and a bundle of birch rods. Regional appearances vary, and related companions of Saint Nicholas have different names, including Knecht Ruprecht, Schmutzli, and Père Fouettard. Krampus traditions are especially associated with Austria and the eastern Alpine region, but related customs occur across Central Europe.
The figure’s exact origins are debated. Folklorists have connected him with pre-Christian Alpine winter figures, while the historical custom clearly developed within Christian Saint Nicholas celebrations. Austria also saw official opposition to Krampus in the 1930s and 1950s, before the tradition resurged later in the 20th century.