S3 E29 Jingle Bells and Peculiar Tales: The Strange History of Christmas Traditions

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Dive into the chilling shadows of the holiday season with this special Christmas episode of Dark History. Beneath the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a world of strange, eerie, and unsettling traditions that have shaped the way we celebrate. Join Rob as he unravels the mysteries of Christmas past—from the dark and dehumanizing jobs of Victorian mudlarks to the sinister legends of Greek Christmas monsters, the Kallikantzaroi.

Explore the ancient magic of mistletoe, its ties to Druidic rituals, and its surprising role in medieval justice. Discover the grim origins of mince pies, once crafted with meat and blood, and learn how leaving out milk and cookies for Santa evolved from acts of survival and generosity. And finally, delve into the unruly roots of caroling, where wassailers wielded songs as both festive pleas and thinly veiled threats.

This episode will forever change the way you see the holiday season. So, grab your hot cocoa, settle by the fire, and prepare for a journey into the dark heart of Christmas.

Merry Christmas, and remember—history is never as bright as it seems. 

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