In some Eastern and Western European cultures St. Nicolas, the original Santa Clause, does not roam the night alone. He has his partner Krampus giving out punishment to those who have behaved badly during the year. Krampus most likely originated from Austria derived from pagan beliefs. He was later adapted to Christian beliefs symbolizing the devil himself. As I’m from Hungary Europe I grow up with this figure fearing his coming. Interestingly, neither St. Nicolas nor Krampus came on Christmas. These two figures came on the 6th of December during the night, either leaving you a small present or if you were bad, Krampus leaving you with a small broomstick.
When Christmas came we were taught to believe that Jesus was responsible for the gifts as we celebrated his birth. We received all the gifts on the night of the 24th of December after the family dinner.
Coming to America I was surprised that presents were exchanged on the next morning instead the previous night. Since being a dad, I’m especially glad that I kept this one tradition so I don’t have to wake up early on the 25th.