Denise Alvarado

Gumbo Ya Ya Krampus-Santa Holiday Edition Denise Alvarado

Who knew there are as many versions of Santa Claus and his sidekicks as there are cultures that celebrate Yuletide? From the Netherlands' white horse called Schimmel to the donkey of France and the Angels of Czechoslovakia, the companions of St. Nicholas run the gamut from beast to celestial being to human thug, from benevolent helper to scary monster. Whatever their form and demeanor, St. Nick's companions travel alongside him to help him get the job of gift-giving done. And as for Krampus? He is often referred to as the Christmas devil because he travels with St. Nicholas in chains and bells punishing children who have misbehaved. According to lore, the naughty children are taken away to his lair, some say to Hell itself, and crammed in cages or chained.