A reveler depicting a scythe-carrying creature that represents death takes part in a procession lead by St. Nicholas, a centuries old pre-Christmas tradition in Lidecko, Czech Republic, Monday, Dec. 4, 2023. Groups parade together, going door to door for three days as St. Nicholas presents the children with sweets to soothe them after they see the scary costumes. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)