Christmas is the season of joy—or is it? While twinkling lights and cozy carols dominate the holidays, darker traditions lurk in the shadows. Meet Gryla, a hulking ogre who hunts children to stew in her pot, and Père Fouettard, Saint Nicholas’ cannibalistic accomplice. From the whip-wielding Krampus to the sinister Frau Perchta who slits bellies, these chilling figures transform Christmas into a festival of frights.
Explore global folklore that’s anything but merry and bright. Learn how Greece’s goblins cause chaos and why a skeletal horse might visit your door in Wales. Each tale unveils a side of Christmas few dare to uncover.
Will you brave the haunting lore, or will you be wishing for the Grinch? One thing’s for sure: you’ll never see Christmas the same way again.