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The Krampus tradition originates from centuries of Pagan festivals. There are many interwoven traditions such as Black Peter in Belgium, Knecht Ruprecht in central Germany and the Krampus in Tyrol and Bavaria. He is scary figure wearing leather masks and furs and cowbells. In Christian times, the Krampus traditionally punished or rewarded children based on the “bad or good” model that Santa uses. Nowadays the Krampus act as companions to St. Nicholas when he makes his visit on 5 & 6 December. Many cities have their own version of a “Krampuslauf”, or run. Particular to Berchtesgaden are the Buttenmandl’ who dress up in specially grown hay and run from house to house terrorizing naughty children and passers-by alike. They, along with the Krampus’ roam the streets literally beating bystanders with switches; presumably to drive out the evil.