NEW ULM — St. Nicholas and Krampus made a special visit to the New Ulm Public Library Monday night during the St. Nicholas Day storytime.

St. Nicholas Day is observed on Dec. 5 or Dec. 6 on the feast day of St. Nicholas of Myra. The holiday is celebrated by children around Europe, but the tradition has come to New Ulm as well. Each year, the public library hosts a St. Nicholas celebration where the children can meet St. Nick and his companion Krampus.

This year’s St. Nick celebration began with a story and sing-a-long. Youth Service Librarian Kathryn Tatnall read two holiday themed books. The first was “Jingle Bells” by Maryann Kovalski. The story included the classic holiday song “Jingle Bells.” The children in attendance were able to play with actual jingle bells during the musical passages.

The second books was “The Story of Saint Nicholas” by Laura Wagner. The book told the story of Nicholas, the bishop of Turkey who was devoted to charitable works. He secretly gave gifts to those in need. It was his spirit of selfless giving that inspired the story of Santa Claus.

After the story, St. Nicholas and Krampus met with the children. St. Nick gave the good children holiday cookies. Krampus was on hand with switches in case there were any naughty children, but Krampus said everyone in attendance was good this year.