Yup, those are demons. Apparently, the Krampus is a demon that accompanies St. Nick. He carries a birch branch and a basket. If you are bad, not only do you not get presents but you either get beaten with the switch or thrown in the basket and taken to the depth of hell.
Today (5 December) is Krampustag. The Muencheners dress up in elaborate masks and parade around as Krampuses. I'd better get started on Eliza's costume. Check out these kids:
Also, this completely expands the Christmas card options. Check this out:
Greetings from Krampus and Nicholas
Greetings from Krampus
Oh, Germany, what an interesting few years this is going to be!!
