"Krampus is a mythical creature who accompanies Saint Nicholas in various regions of the world during the Christmas season.[citation needed] The word Krampus originates from the Old High German word for claw (Krampen). In the Alpine regions, Krampus is represented by a demon-like creature accompanying Saint Nicholas. Krampus acts in conjunction with Saint Nicholas; the latter gives gifts to good children, while the Krampus gives warnings and punishments to the bad children.[citation needed] 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 women with rusty chains and bells.[citation needed] In some rural areas the tradition also includes birching by Krampus, especially of young females."