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Krampus, Austria

Santa isn’t the only one who knows who’s been naughty or nice. Austria’s version of the Grinch is Krampus, the evil accomplice to St. Nicholas. Each year Krampus roams the streets, with clattering bells and chains, scaring the kids and punishing any that have been bad. Austrian legend speaks of Krampus capturing children and taking them away in his sack. Young men dress up as Krampus during the first week of December each year and especially on the eve of St. Nicholas Day.