The Krampus is a demon of Central European lore which came out to punish bad children during the holiday season on the designated eve of Krampusnacht. Christian tradition had deprived this belief of popularity in recent centuries, but over the past couple of decades we have seen a significant resurgence of the tradition not only in the area of the Krampus’ origin, but all over the world. Costumed performers (traditionally and typically young men) race down the streets with whips in hand, seeking out the bad children (not to actually beat them), the cheeky young women (this has alot to do with the runners) and engaging in small miracle plays or making house visits.