According to Austrian tradition, before kids can earn their visit from good St. Nick, they must get past Krampus. This demon-like creature cruises town the day before St. Nicholas' Day and passes out lumps of coal and switches to the naughty kids. At this time of year, every town in Austria has a guy in a Krampus costume run through town, pretending to look for anyone who's been naughty.

Jump ahead to DTLA. Someone with an intercultural sense of humor began a Krampuslauf (Krampus Run) parade a few years ago, and it has grown in popularity. Organizers promise that participating Krampuses (Krampi?) are kid-friendly and will only play with children in a good-natured way; the intention is for a family-friendly event. Saint Nick follows the Krampus Troupe, looking for candidates for his Nice List.

There is a 21+ after party at the Regent Theater at 488 S. Main Street, but this is a separate event; the parade itself should be a hoot, and it's free.

The street is closed to traffic for the parade.