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

Their syrupy death is medicinal for humans, too.

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

Heikki Lunta even has his own song.

In the 19th century, the character embodied debates about women’s rights—and occasionally got a sleigh ride of her own.

Courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service's Fire Sciences Laboratory.

Of all the variations on the beloved character, Russia's Ded Moroz might have the strangest history.

The remains of St. Nick can be found on multiple continents.

For 23 years he role-played in holiday letters to his children.

Resurrecting a centuries-old Christmas ritual with creepy masks, horse heads, and bras worn on the outside.

It’s never too late to inspire fascination about the world.

May your holidays dazzle and bewilder.

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.

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

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

The Tom and Jerry is a Christmas staple.

Once a magical, murderous farmhand, the nisse has transformed into a beloved holiday figure.

Knock out the year with an elixir that can pacify an army.

Chilis were once holiday must-haves.

Find a pickle, win a special gift.

This impressively large collection includes crackers shaped like Jimmy Carter, Mickey Mouse, and more.

During the holidays, a vintage subway train whisks New Yorkers back in time.

The home made famous by the 1983 holiday classic is now a perfectly preserved shrine to the movie.

A rapidly disappearing authentic bit of the old south.

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