The holidays are here and nothing sets the tone like Christmas stories. However, not all tales are filled with joy and magic. Across the world, there are stories of the dark side of Christmas that will send shivers down your spine. From the sinister to the supernatural, these haunting stories are sure to captivate your attention. Join us as we travel around the world exploring some of the most haunting Christmas tales ever told.
Krampus – Austria
Krampus is a beastly creature that roams the streets on December 5th, St. Nicholas Eve, scaring children. The legend goes that St. Nicholas visits good children and leaves them presents while Krampus punishes those who misbehaved. Krampus of Austria is a terrifying creature complete with horns, a long tongue, and sharp fangs. Krampus is a Christmas tradition that goes back centuries, making him an enduring part of the holiday in modern-day Austria.
Mari Lwyd – Wales
Mari Lwyd is a traditional Welsh Christmas custom that involves a skeletal horse skull and a group of men who carry it to different households to challenge them to a battle of songs. The group, led by the horse skull “Mari Lwyd,” will sing songs at each house. If the homeowner manages to out-sing the group, they offer them entry into their home. However, if Mari Lwyd wins the sing-off, the group is allowed inside to enjoy the homeowner’s Christmas meal. This creepy tradition has become notorious in Wales and is still performed today.
Befana – Italy
Instead of Santa Claus, children in Italy await the arrival of Befana, a good witch who delivers presents to good children and coal to the naughty ones. According to the legend, Befana was asked to accompany the three wise men on their journey to see the baby Jesus, but she declined. She later regretted her decision and has been searching for the baby Jesus ever since, leaving presents for children along the way. The story of Befana is sweet, but it’s hard to ignore the dark undertones.
The Yule Cat – Iceland
In Iceland, there is a folklore tale of a ferocious cat named Jólakötturinn or the Yule Cat that preys on those who haven’t received new clothing before Christmas Eve. The story goes that the Yule cat is owned by the trolls in Iceland, and the only way to protect yourself is to receive new clothing. The Yule Cat is a meant to scare people into working hard and earning money to buy new clothes. It is said that the Yule Cat is still believed to exist in Iceland and that some people still believe in this tale today.
These haunting Christmas tales from around the world offer a unique look at the dark side of the holiday season.
Whether it’s witches, beasts, or skeletal horses, each tale has its unique blend of darkness and intrigue, making them unforgettable. From Austria to Iceland to Wales, the Christmas season puts a strange twist on familiar stories, adding a bit of dark magic to the festivities. While each story is scary in its own way, there’s a beauty in sharing these enduring tales for generations to come.
