But don’t worry—polar plunges and putting children in ovens helps banish them.

To make it through the long, cold Arctic winters, reindeer can get their beauty sleep while they stock up on calories.

But if you’re wearing new clothes, you have nothing to fear from Jólakötturinn.

The 1945 Barbara Stanwyck film is a classic for its charming portrayal of a food writer who can’t cook. It had its basis in real life.

And other strange evergreen decor evolutions, from retro-kitsch to glow-in-the-dark.

For two decades, fans have been waking up on Christmas morning to custom, obsession-feeding gifts from strangers.

The ancient tradition of Turoń bestowing blessings has faded but, like the creature itself, it may be resurrected.

Marine archaeologists are beginning to understand what really happened to Captain Santa's ill-fated ship.

The answer is the Moon.

How a whip-wielding butcher became St. Nick's sidekick.

Featuring devils, yurts, and Yule Lads, traditional crèche sets can tell unique stories about their communities.

Our favorite food gifts your loved ones don’t already have.

From telescopes to fun and functional hats, we've got ideas for every astro-enthusiast in your life this giving season.

A giving guide from the Atlas Obscura team.

A giving guide from the Atlas Obscura team.

A gift guide from the Atlas Obscura team.

A giving guide from the Atlas Obscura team.

In Umbria, the holidays mean a piece of sweet, almondy serpentone.

Have some fun with fusion.

Porcelain or plastic, Harry Potter or copulating couple, fèves come in all shapes and sizes.

Cooking with evergreens has a long history.

Puto bumbong is a sweet, post-mass breakfast during Simbang Gabi.

Despite health warnings, the region's cannibal sandwiches remain popular.

The Tom and Jerry is a Christmas staple.

An entire home filled with over 3,000 pieces of Santa memorabilia in glass cases, walls, on Christmas trees, and even in the bathroom.

The classic Christmas carol was written at this Massachusetts tavern in 1850.

Peek inside this sandy mailbox and you'll spot kids' letters to Santa.

Albuquerque found the perfect use for tumbleweeds at Christmastime.

Every Christmas, one Arizona city makes the most of its dry climate by creating an arid desert tannenbaum.

A Cajun-style Christmas on the river also involves sky-high pyres and explosives.

The red crab exhibits one of the most spectacular migrations on earth, despite manmade obstacles.