However, some of the legends of other countries may seem a bit...well, terrifying.
One of my favorites is Krampus — the anti-Santa.
A legend in German folklore, Krampus is a beast-like creature that contrasts St. Nicholas who rewards well-behaved children with gifts, similar to our Santa Claus.
Parents would threaten naughty children that Krampus would visit them on Dec. 5, throw them in a sack and carry them away to his lair.
Iceland has a few particularly frightening myths including Jolakotturinn — the Yule Cat or Christmas Cat — and Gryla, an Icelandic ogress.
For many Icelandic families, those who finish their work on time receive new clothes at Christmas, but the lazy ones do not. To encourage children to work hard, parents would tell the tale of the Yule Cat.
Read more at NJ.com
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