Krampus, “the Christmas devil”
In Germany, Hungary or Austria, there is a tradition that will perplex you. It is about Krampus, the evil brother of Santa Claus. This ‘Christmas devil’ has a terrifying appearance, as he is half goat, half demon and has sticks and chains to punish children who misbehaved and take them to the underworld. This character is characterized during the month of Christmas; without a doubt he is the antagonist of Santa Claus.
Hide the brooms on Christmas Eve
In Norway and the Nordic countries it is thought that witches invade different homes in search of a broom, which is why, during Christmas, families decide to hide the brooms and even shoot at midnight with the intention of scare away any evil spirit.
The burning of the Devil in Guatemala
Some areas of Guatemala start the month of Christmas with ‘The burning of the devil’, a tradition in which bonfires are lit and images of Satan are burned so that good may prevail over evil.
Lucky cobwebs in Ukraine
If you think that the Christmas tree is only decorated with balls, lights, bows and ‘cute’ things, you are wrong. In Ukraine they adorn their trees with cobweb decorations for ‘luck’. The story goes that the tree of a poor family was filled with cobwebs, but when the sun rose they changed to gold and silver tones.
Mari Lwyd
The United Kingdom brings together a peculiar tradition in Wales. It is about the election of a citizen each Christmas to perform a ritual. He must parade through the streets with a mare’s skull leaning on a pole, while the villagers sing.
Shoe toss
On Christmas Eve, single women from the Czech Republic stand at their doorstep and pull back their shoes to see if they will find a stable partner. If the shoe falls with the toe facing the door, it means that they will find love; Yes, it is the other way around, it means that they will remain single.
Beer dessert at Christmas
In Ireland, instead of preparing panettone and chocolate, they have a tradition of preparing a pudding made with Guinness beer or Irish whiskey. These supplies are left for Santa Claus and the Magi to continue with their visit.
Giant headlights
Before Christmas, a giant lantern festival is held. This festival brings together people from different parts of the Philippines. These objects measure up to six meters.
Sleigh and rollerblade ride
In Venezuela during Christmas people usually go out on sleds and skates until December 25. The streets are closed to avoid car traffic.
Japan and Christmas Eve at KFC
Christmas Eve in Japan has been celebrated in KFC since 1974 and this is due to the strong advertising campaign of Kentucky Fried Chicken, where it said ‘Kurisumasu ni wa kentakkii!’, Translated into Spanish is En Navidad, Kentucky!
They are 47 years with that tradition
Source From: Ambito
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