He Sees You When You're Sleeping...

The little boy and his sister eagerly snuck down the stairs towards the tree. While they should’ve been tucked into their beds with care dreaming of gumdrops and all, here they were trying to get a sneak peek of Santa Claus. However, they could never have imagined what they came to see standing in front of the fireplace. The half goat half demon turned and smiled widely before grabbing and shoving them into his makeshift Santa bag. A little snack for later.

You know exactly what time of year it is. The trees are bare, the air is frigid, and the Christmas

carols are playing in every station. Kids excitedly prepare for the arrival of good ‘ol St. Nick on the night of December 24. But what happens if a child was bad all year long? While yes, the popular belief is that they receive a lump of coal; but they could also receive a visit from Krampus.

The origin of Krampus began in Germany. He is the counterpart to Santa Clause. While Santa is the jolly old man who brings toys to the kids that have been good all year round, Krampus on the other hand is quite the opposite. He is said to be a ‘goat demon’. Appearing with horns, fangs, 2 hooves, and a long tongue he definitely does not appear with the magic of Christmas. Krampus comes for the kids that have been naughty. He carries a bundle of birch sticks and swings a chain covered in bells.

Contrary to the popular belief that they are to receive coal they receive a beating from Krampus if they’re lucky. Krampus is believed to be the son of Hel, Norse god of the underworld. This is why so many believe that he takes the naughty children to the underworld in his bag. Though some legends say that he simply beats the children with the bitch sticks that he carries with him.

There are still some celebrations held to celebrate the arrival of Krampus on December 5. In Austria and Germany they celebrate Krampuslauf, or Krampus run. When celebrating people dress as Krampus and parade in the street drinking and trying to scare those around them. While there’s no actual proof of Krampus existing there are many stories, legends, and movies about Santa’s counterpart. He seems to be just another way to ensure that children behave during the year.