This week we’re feeling the holiday spirit here at Figmentals headquarters. In honor of the upcoming holidays, today’s episode is going to be Christmas-themed. But we’re not going to be talking smiling, rosy-cheeked bringers of yuletide cheer. Oh, no. Instead, today we’re going to take a look at the darker side of the season. So, let’s venture into Christmas’ creepy underbelly— and meet Krampus.

Krampus is a half-goat, half-demon figure who’s covered in dark fur. He has cloven hooves and giant horns, and his long red tongue dangles, sagging from the side of his fanged mouth. But before you catch a glimpse of him, you’re likely to hear him coming: he carries chains that he clanks and thrashes around for dramatic effect. He also carries a stick, called a ruten, that he uses to swat naughty children. Perhaps most terrifyingly, however, is the sack he carries on his back. He uses this to collect the naughty children so he can cart them away. But to where? Some say he takes them home to eat. Others say they’re going straight to hell.

Today’s episode features an original poem written by Lindsey Morse.

This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.

Additional music: "Christmas Wonder" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original work

Finally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.

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