Krampus Run Dec. 5 in Salzburg, Austria

Fearsome horned, fur-covered and masked beings known as the Krampus descend upon the Salzburg Christmas market to scare visitors into their best behavior.

Eve of St. Nicholas Day Dec. 5 in Prague, Czech Republic

Saint Nicholas, an Angel and Devil walk around the Old Town Square, asking children if they’ve been good in the past year. If the answer is yes, they receive a small treat.

L’Escalade Dec. 6-8 in Geneva, Switzerland

Citizens recall how a surprise attack by the Duke of Savoy's army back in 1602 was thwarted by a cauldron of boiling soup with costumed processions and a bonfire.

Battle of the Bulge 75th anniversary commemorations Dec. 13-15 in Bastogne, Belgium

Bastogne remembers the U.S. forces’ assistance in the defense of their besieged city in 1944 with parades, static displays, wreath-laying, a perimeter walk and more.

Habits de Lumiere Dec. 13-15 in Epernay, France

Festivities enlivening the famed Avenue of Champagne include illuminations, fireworks, artistic performances, culinary demonstrations and a vintage automobile parade.

Dickens Festival Dec. 14-15 in Deventer, Netherlands

Carol singers, orphans, drunkards, clerks, fine gentlemen and other characters from the books of Charles Dickens evoke the flavor of a 19th century Christmas celebration.

Umbria Jazz Dec. 28-Jan. 1 in Orvieto, Italy

This beautiful hill town is the site of a jazz festival that has both a summer and winter edition. Concerts take place in bars, theaters, churches and other surprising venues.

Hogmanay celebrations Dec. 30-Jan. 1 in Edinburgh, Scotland

New Year’s celebrations in the form of a huge street party with concerts and ceilidhs attract an international crowd. Tickets are required for most events, so plan accordi