You better watch out you better don't cry...it is almost Krampustime

 

The Retreat is now open with lots of snow and an ice skating rink. Never know what you might find hidden.

If you think of the holidays which are right around the corner you most likely think of cheerful Santa and presents, the decorated tree, and picture-perfect snow scenes, right? However, all these happy activities which mostly originate from Europe also have some darker traditions not well known in the USA or Canada.

From afar, from the forest I come here;
I must tell you, it truly is Christmastide!
Now tell me, what will I find herein—
a good child, or a wicked child?

There is one character who is called Krampus (in the alpine regions of Europe) or Knecht Ruprecht. The story of Knecht Ruprecht stretches back to the late Middle Ages. The legend is part of a centuries-old Christmas tradition in Germany, where Christmas celebrations start early in December.

Knecht Ruprecht is usually seen as a half-demon, half-goat-looking figure bearing devilish horns and a monstrous tongue, but he can also be spotted as a sinister man with a black beard bearing a black furry robe, a chain, and bells along with a bundle of birch sticks to punish the naughty children. 

According to German tradition, he appears in homes on St. Nicholas Day to ask parents about their children's behaviors. Depending on the response, he would give switches for use on the bad children, before dragging them into the woods. You know the song Santa is coming to town and you better be good and you better not shout, that is because Santa does not come alone at least not in Germany. 

I will have my special Krampus drawing here in Second Life.

It will be at the ice skating rink after Thanksgiving. There is also an Advent Calendar in the Basement Club for a daily gift starting December 1.