Fear and fun at Christmas custom - 14th December 2022

On December 6th, Saint Nicholas Day, there's a special tradition for children in many European countries. Saint Nicholas brings gifts for those who've behaved well during the year. Those children find presents under their pillows or in their shoes. However, those who've behaved badly may just find a stick or a piece of coal.

In Bad Mitterndorf town, Austria, the children are both excited and nervous. On the 5th December, locals take part in a play, called 'Nikolospiel'. The men dress as 'Krampus', in heavy sheepskin clothes, with frightening masks and large horns on their heads.

Daniela Puercher attends regularly.

Daniela Puercher: 'For those who are attending for the first time, it's definitely chilling. It's dark, there's electricity in the air. The atmosphere is special. You hear the bells ringing and then the characters appear. Even with the experience, you are still impressed.'

'The children, of course they are afraid, especially those who have not been good during the year.'

The 130 'Nikolospiel' performers make their way through the town. They're led by 12 'Schab' - faceless figures that are covered in straw - who clear the way.

Each time the parade stops, Saint Nicholas tests children's knowledge about Catholicism and those who respond correctly receive some sweets. If they make a mistake, however, the scary Krampus quickly carry them off.

Due to its cultural importance, this 150 year old custom now has UNESCO status. And the organiser, Martin Rainer, feels sure it will entertain crowds for many decades to come.

Martin Rainer: 'We in the region are very proud that we have managed to keep this tradition in its original form for all these decades. And we are convinced that with the demand we are already receiving, the next generation will be able to take over without any problems in the coming decades.'