Krampusnacht

It is the tradition of some European countries to celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6 (which also happens to be my Mom's birthday--I'd wish her a Happy Birthday here, but she doesn't do the Internet.)

It is also tradition belief that, the night before, St. Nicholas travels the globe, rewarding all the children who have been good throughout the year.

And the children who've been bad? They get Krampus.

Krampus is, to put it politely, a demon. He punishes bad children. Or eats them. Depends on which depiction you see. Also? He usually travels along with St. Nicholas (though sometimes Krampus ventures off on his own), so how nice can this St. Nick guy really be?

So if you're out and about tonight, be forewarned: If you've been naughty this year, Krampus might just be coming...for...YOU!

(The picture above is in the window of Dank Haus on Western Avenue in Lincoln Square. Krampus is shown in chains. For you naughty kids, you better hope he stays that way.)