Krampus and Yule Cat

Whimsically dark, interesting and ancient yuletide beings

During the holidays, we tend to think of the birth of Christ (which most likely didn't happen in December, but that is another subject), festive decorations, Christmas carols, snow, shopping, gingerbread men and the like.

But have you ever heard of Krampus and Yule Cat? They are mystical Alpine yuletide creatures. Krampus is a scary goat type monster with horns who roams the Alpine territory on December 5th.
He is not a friendly beast and rattles chains as he travels to punish those who cross his path. Some think of him as utter evil but as he is a fantasy creature that is up to interpretation. Many people perceive Krampus as a representative of the darkness in the world and some see him as a pagan, sinful part of ancient storytelling. But hasn't sinfulness always been part of ancient storytelling? Grimm's Fairy Tales anyone? Snow White? Cinderella? I of course could go on and on.

And then there is Yule Cat, a giant cat creature with fangs who is menacing and fierce like Krampus, except for a different reason. Yule Cat thinks everyone should get new clothes by Christmas. Therefore those who don't will get eaten by Yule Cat. It is thought by some who have heard this story that the enormous feline is trying to encourage generosity by urging people to donate new clothes to the less fortunate so they do not end up getting devoured. Whatever reason for this giant cat's yearly prowling Christmas visit, it is always a good idea to make sure you get at least one new clothing item by Christmas even if it is just a pair of socks, so you will not encounter Yule Cat. (Just kidding, unless you live in the Alps, lol.)

These yearly fantasy creatures add an intriguingly dark twist to the usual tidings of the season and demonstrate the creativity of folklore and mischievous winter magic.