This jolly old elf is a "Krampus":The word Krampus originates from the Old High German word for claw (Krampen). In the Alpine regions the Krampus is represented by an incubus in company of Santa Claus. Traditionally, young men dress up as the Krampus in the first two weeks of December, particularly in the evening of December 5, and roam the streets frightening children (and adults) with rusty chains and bells. In some rural areas the tradition also includes slight birching by the Krampus, especially of young females.Ah, Germany -- nothing like an alpine Christmas with folksy, Old World charm!
UPDATE: A Krampus gallery!
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