Creepy New Year. Krampus, the Yule Cat, and Other Winter Evil Spirits from Around the World

The change of the year has always been shrouded in mystical horror, for at this time the boundary with the otherworld is especially shaky and transparent. Winter covers the earth with a snow blanket – and it is during this long New Year's night that THEY come out: leaving frightening tracks in the snow, scratching with sharp claws on window frames, awakening fear in people.

In all countries of the world, there are ancient stories about winter monsters that wait in the cold, gloomy darkness, creeping up to houses, hiding in the snowdrifts, and rustling in the snow on the gabled roofs! About those who can kill livestock, spoil supplies of milk and cheese in the pantries, or even eat the master himself if he was not diligent enough. About those who steal food from the festive table, and if they do not get enough – they grab disobedient children and make stew from them.

Happy New Year! You behaved well this year, didn't you?